An apprentice social worker at Walsall Council has been recognised for her talents after picking up an award at the BAME Apprenticeship Awards 2020.
Pal Kaur, who is in her second year of a Level 6 social work degree apprenticeship while working full-time at the local authority, picked up the prize in the health, medical and social care category.
She said she was particularly pleased to receive recognition because she began her apprenticeship at the age of 45. She had already clocked up 20 years at the council, where she is now working as an assistant manager in the social care department, supporting practitioners who work with care leavers in the borough.
“I feel really lucky to be getting paid to do a job I love and to be studying for a degree I’ve wanted to do for some years but would never have had the opportunity if I hadn’t gone down the apprenticeship route,” she said.
“To be offered the apprenticeship is an amazing opportunity to progress in my career and then I was shocked to find out I’d be nominated for this award and then a finalist. I was working on the night of the online awards ceremony, so was blown away to find out I’d won the health, medical and social care category.
“I’m so fortunate to work with a really great team, who are all passionate about making the lives of children and young people in Walsall better.”
Pal, who is married with two children, said once she qualifies as a social worker, she will continue to focus on young people leaving care.
“Walsall is the town I was born and bred in and I want to stay working here, helping young people leaving care as they are some of the most vulnerable groups in the community. That’s the work I love doing.”
Councillor Bal Chattha, Portfolio Holder for Personnel and Business Support said, “I am delighted and proud that Pal has won the BAME Apprenticeship Awards 2020 and has been recognised for her hard work and determination.”
“The BAME awards are a golden opportunity to promote Apprenticeships across the wider community and represent the diverse community that we serve.”
“Endless Possibilities won the Employer Award back in 2018 and are delighted with having three of our apprentices as finalists this year, Kiran Bibi from Children’s Services and Zara Khan from the Equalities Team as well as Pal.”
“With over 400 entries to the BAME Awards the competition was extremely tough this year and all those involved should be very proud of their achievements.”
“The Council is delighted to be able to support our existing workforce on higher and degree-level apprenticeships and wish them all every success in fulfilling their goals.”
