A Higher UC Apprentice Scheme introduced by Freedom Communications one year ago has won the Excellence in People Development award at the Herts Chamber of Commerce's Inspiring Hertfordshire 2015 gala dinner.
The scheme provides a bespoke Higher Apprentice framework and qualification and offers Freedom's existing workforce the opportunity to future-proof career prospects through the development of new technological skills.
The is part-funded by Government and backed by local Members of Parliament.
Designed to be scalable for UK-wide adoption, Freedom will now enter the Apprentice Scheme into the National Inspiration Awards.
Freedom's Operations Director, Lisa Clark, said: "Having invested heavily in our Apprentice Scheme, not just financially but also in terms of energy, passion and time, we are delighted to receive the Excellence in People Development award.
"We believe that this truly does recognise that we're cultivating a unique technical workforce, helping to drive both business and economic growth."
Pat Botting, Freedom's MD, added: "Throughout our 26 year history, communications technology has evolved from traditional telephony to the new world of Unified Communications.
"Having seen that during this transition new skills within the market did not also develop, we made the strategic decision to address this with the launch of our own UC Apprentice Scheme.
"We are thrilled that both our approach and commitment to our people has been acknowledged with this award win."