BMet Fellowships awarded to investment manager and HR leader
The 2017 BMet Fellowships have been awarded to an investment manager and a head of HR who have supported hundreds of students, work-based learners and apprentices in the area. Ian Burrows of Brewin Dolphin and Christine Tolley of Hydraforce Hydraulics Ltd received their awards at BMet’s Higher Education Awards ceremony.
BMet Principal, Andrew Cleaves said: “Ian and Christine have been the driving force behind initiatives to develop the aspirations of and train others for the world of work. The mentoring they have promoted has led to many students and apprentices pursuing lifelong learning opportunities as part of their career progress.
“Our two fellows have also offered valuable guidance to the college on how employers can shape the education and training landscape for future professionals.
“On behalf of all at BMet, I congratulate and thank them for being such outstanding advocates for learning and development.”
Ian Brewin has been instrumental to the success of BMet’s Enterprise Academy and played a key role in launching the Creative Digital Career College in 2016.
He has supported many students by delivering workshops and being a mentor. In his capacity as a board member, he has provided essential strategic guidance and helped to direct the Academy’s vision and business plans. He has also been an excellent ambassador, encouraging other members of his professional network to get involved with Academy activities.
One of his most memorable roles includes the design and delivery of an annual ‘Dragon’s Den’ competition, where hundreds of students have been immersed in the world of business, demonstrating skills that will set them up for the future.
On receiving his Fellowship, Ian said: “It has been an honour to be involved in the college and to meet the many driven and inspiring students who have passed through the doors.
“Over the past few years I have seen BMet make great strides to further build and develop its links with business and employers, of which the academies are but one example. I truly hope this continues as by working together we can really help to lift aspirations and drive the local economy. I feel privileged to receive this award and I would like to thank the college for allowing me to be involved.”
Fellowship recipient, Christine Tolley has proved to be a great advocate of workforce development across manufacturing company, Hydraforce Hydraulics, particularly in relation to the training and development of its engineering apprentices. Working closely with BMet for a number of years, she has ensured the apprentices’ learning experience has been fulfilling and supportive.
She has continually challenged apprentices to achieve the very highest standards and uphold the excellence expected by the company across the world. Passionate about continuous learning, she also encourages all apprentices to progress to university-level studies including Foundation Degrees and Higher National Certificate programmes.
Christine has also supported many of BMet’s apprenticeship open events and shared her views at manufacturing roundtable events where skills and training have been an important topic for discussion.
“I’m delighted and honoured to have been presented with this award,” said Christine about her Fellowship. “Having seen the impact that continuous learning has on individuals, I fully believe in employers promoting workforce skills training and development.
“The crucial collaborative role that businesses and education providers play in shaping apprenticeship and work-based learning programmes should never be taken for granted, but continually championed and enhanced for the benefit of our future industries.”
The Fellowship Awards were presented at BMet’s Higher Education Awards ceremony at Birmingham Town Hall. 345 students graduated from a number of higher level diplomas, foundation and full honours degree programmes.
ENDS