Archie Henderson (19) from the University of Glasgow's Hunterian Museum has previously been highlighted as the only modern apprentice working in numismatics (the study of coins) in the country. Now he has achieved further recognition at the Scottish Modern Apprenticeship Awards 2003!

Archie took away two awards from the ceremony last Thursday, 30 October 2003: Apprentice Achievement (Continuing Personal Development) and the Outstanding Achievement Award. Lewis Macdonald MSP, Deputy Minister for Enterprise and Lifelong Learning presented the trophies to Archie at the Sheraton Grand Hotel in Edinburgh.

"I congratulate the many thousands of young people across Scotland who have successfully completed their Modern Apprenticeships and who are now playing their part in building a prosperous Scotland." Lewis Macdonald said.

Archie's family were joined by Dr Sally-Anne Coupar from the University's Hunterian Museum who; along with Alison Fenton, Training Manager with responsibility for the University's Modern Apprenticeship programme, have done a tremendous job of mentoring Archie.

Dr Coupar, Curator of Coins at the Museum spoke of her delight at the news: "Archie has worked so hard since joining us two years ago at the age of 16. I am thrilled that he has received this award which clearly acknowledges his efforts and dedication".

Alison Fenton said, "I am delighted for Archie. He has grasped every opportunity to develop his skills and expertise in an area where there are few development opportunities for young people without higher level qualifications."

Archie himself is overwhelmed by his own merits: "It's been fantastic working at the Hunterian over the past two years. I'm absolutely ecstatic to be awarded the Modern Apprenticeship Award this year - I still can't believe it!"

Media Relations Office (media@gla.ac.uk)

Modern Apprenticeships combine paid employment with the opportunity to train for jobs at craft, technician and management level. They are managed by Scottish Enterprise and Highland and Islands Enterprise.

For more information on Modern Apprenticeships see: Scottish Modern Apprenticeships.

For more details please contact Mike Findlay on 0141 330 3535 or m.findlay@admin.gla.ac.uk.

First published: 4 November 2003