A NEWTON Aycliffe woman is celebrating after being crowned star apprentice at a regional awards ceremony.

Chelsea Keedy received triumphed over apprentices from across the north of England at the learndirect Inspiration Awards in Manchester.

The 20-year-old excelled during her business administration apprenticeship, helping to recruit more than 30 young people onto courses through a presentation to her former school.

Miss Keedy chose the apprenticeship route over university, as it gave her real work experience which allowed her to shape her career and earn money.

She has now secured a permanent job as a team leader in a busy office.

On receiving the award, Miss Keedy said: “The apprenticeship with learndirect has been a great opportunity.

“You’re able to earn money whilst you’re learning in a workplace environment so you get valuable transferable skills. I’d definitely recommend it to other people.”

Miss Keedy and other regional winners will now go forward to a national judging panel, where they will compete with others from across England, Scotland and Wales.

The national winners will be announced at a national ceremony in London on Wednesday, June 11.

Paul Kilgour, group director of apprenticeships at learndirect, said: “The standard of nominations this year has been extremely high, showing the drive and determination of people in the north to improve their skills and make a change to their life. “