The Department for Employment and Learning has begun its search for the 'Apprentice of the Year 2008'.

The competition, now in its seventh year, is open to 16–24 year olds and aims to recognise the talent, excellence and determination of local apprentices. It has become the highlight of the year for many of those involved in apprenticeship training in Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey, encouraged local training providers to enter apprentices to the competition and added: "With well over 7,000 apprentices in Northern Ireland alone, representing a diverse range of industry and business sectors, the popularity of apprenticeships as the route to a successful career continues to grow. These awards are our opportunity to applaud apprentices who are taking their future in their own hands and employers who are taking control of the future of their business by investing in skills of their workforce."

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Sir Reg continued: "Apprenticeships offer young people the opportunity to acquire the skills necessary to produce a more flexible and creative workforce. Investing time and effort in developing the right skills benefits the economy and helps to meet the needs of local industry and employers."

Nominations can be made by Training Organisations and/or Employers in respect of apprentices on either the Jobskills and/or Training for Success training programmes. Self nominations for the Employer and Training Organisation Awards may be made. The closing date for nominations for all categories is 12.00 noon on Thursday 6 March 2008. Application forms may be downloaded from:www.delni.gov.uk/.

The winners will be announced at the awards event at the Hilton Hotel, Belfast on Wednesday 21 May 2008.