AMRC Training Centre apprentices raise £7496.23 for local charities

Apprentices from the AMRC Training Centre have raised £7496.23 for the Master Cutlers Challenge after organising a James Bond themed gala dinner at the University of Sheffields Firth Hall.

More than 100 people attended and took part in a number of fundraising activities, including a raffle and auction – all of which had been donated by local businesses and supporters. The Challenge is one of the largest and most exciting charity fundraising events in our region. Teams are given £100 and have six months to use their creativity, teamwork and entrepreneurial skills to turn it into as much as possible. The proceeds are split between Whirlow Hall Farm Trust and Sheffield Hospitals Charity.

The AMRC Training Centre apprentice team has nine apprentices, aged 17 to 26. Torston Middleton (17), from Newburgh Engineering said: “We actually had no idea how hard it would be to get it off the ground but were an ambitious bunch! There was loads to do – not only did we have to sort out the venue, the music, the food, the seating, etc., but we also wanted to source the raffle and auction prizes too so we could raise even more money on the night.

He continued: “And this is where we were blown away by the generosity of people and companies that helped us. To begin with, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Sheffield, Sir Keith Burnett, was extraordinary. Without him we might be sitting in a field tonight as he provided the venue and the food to help us maximise our fundraising! And local companies have donated wonderful prizes, we are very grateful for all the support we received.”

AMRC Training Centre Director of Training, Alison Bettac, praised the effort the apprentices had put into organising the charity ball and emphasised the impact it had on their abilities:

“The apprentices have done a phenomenal job. Its amazing,” said Alison.

“They have spent a lot of time developing the concept, raising awareness and securing support. From a learning perspective, it has been a great opportunity for them to develop leadership, financial, project management, communication and negotiation skills.

She also praised the apprentices employers, the University of Sheffield and others who had supported the project:

“I want to express huge thanks to the employers who have enabled them to make this happen and for their support in attending. Also thanks to those who have made significant contributions to the evenings success, including the University of Sheffield and organisations like Aston Martin and Bloodhound SSC.”