Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Partnership NHS Trust, one of the UK's largest providers of health and social care, has shown support to county students by sponsoring an award at an annual awards ceremony.

The Partnership Trust has sponsored the Student of the Year – Higher Education award at Newcastle-under-Lyme College's student awards.

The recipient of the award was student Rachael Ball, who is studying a Higher National Diploma in Health and Social Care at the college. Rachael currently works in the care sector and has gained a place at university to study Occupational Therapy in September.

Director of Workforce and Development, Julie Tanner, said: "The Trust understands the importance of supporting local students to develop the necessary skills to work within health and social care in the community.

"Nurturing the talents of students is important for the future of the NHS and we are keen to work with partners to promote learning opportunities. I’d like to congratulate Rachael on winning her award and wish her luck in her future studies".

The Partnership Trust supports young individuals in gaining qualifications and work experience through its apprenticeship scheme. The scheme offers apprentices an opportunity to earn while they learn, gaining practical workplace experience and benefiting from in house expertise.