A BARNSLEY College apprentice has won praise for gaining permanent employment after impressing with her work ethic.

Georgia Nield, 19, began working for the college as a business administration apprentice in January 2017.

After finishing sixth form, she decided to apply for an apprenticeship because she wanted a hands-on job where she was learning as well as earning.

She seized the opportunity presented by the college, and her passion and dedication landed her a permanent job as an HR assistant.

Georgia said: “I conduct pre- employment checks and assist with recruitment.

“I also answer a lot of queries from prospective employees.

“I find the job very rewarding and I enjoy talking to different people.

“When people think about an apprenticeship, you’re given the impression that it leads to a dead-end job, but it’s really not the case.

“Apprenticeships are not encouraged enough and I think it needs to be pushed because there are so many doors an apprenticeship can open.

“If I didn’t choose to do an apprenticeship, I don’t think I would have been given the position I have now.”

Her work ethic has also gained her a nomination for a Young Champions award.

A spokesman for Barnsley College who nominated Georgia said: “Georgia has quickly became an integral part of the personnel team and progressed to level 3 before ultimately gaining permanent employment as an HR assistant.

“Continuing her level 3 studies with her new role, Georgia demonstrates excellent administrative and customer service skills and provides support to our other apprentices within the department.”

Reflecting on her nomination Georgia said: “I’m shocked but pleased I have been nominated. I enjoy what I do because it’s rewarding and to be recognised for this is great.”