Monmouthshire Building Society celebrated the graduation of its Community Academy associates at an event organised by leading training provider Educ8 Training.
The successful graduates gathered at Llanerch Vineyard in Hensol to receive their certificates in Customer Service Level 2 qualification, which was delivered in partnership with Educ8 Training.
The event, which was sponsored by Monmouthshire Building Society, was the culmination of a strategic partnership between Monmouthshire Building Society and Educ8 Training. The partnership was forged to create meaningful opportunities for new entrants into the financial services industry, as well as building a resilient workforce for the Building Society for the future.
Through fully funded apprenticeships, Educ8 Training supported colleagues across Monmouthshire Building Society to gain new skills, achieve nationally recognised qualifications, and progress in their careers all while remaining in their roles. These work‑based learning programmes allowed the Community Academy associates to apply new knowledge directly to their day‑to‑day responsibilities, delivering immediate benefits for both learners and the organisation.
Monmouthshire Building Society has long championed a culture where personal and professional development are actively encouraged, recognising that investing in people is essential to delivering excellent service, fostering innovation, and supporting long‑term organisational success.
Katrina Stewart, Talent and Learning Partner at Monmouthshire Building Society, shared her personal insight into the impact of apprenticeships:
“Having struggled at school myself, apprenticeships have become one of my greatest passions. I understand first-hand the positive impact they can have on someone's confidence, knowledge, and career progression. My own learning journey inspired me to become an Assessor, and it remains a privilege to support others in achieving their potential.
“That passion has continued to grow through my work with our colleague Academy learners, where I have seen people develop valuable skills and knowledge that they can carry into their future careers. As a Talent and Learning Partner, I am proud to support colleagues with their aspirations, whatever they may be.”
Katrina added:
“It was so wonderful to be at the event to celebrate our Community Academy graduates who have all done so well. I wish them all the best in their future careers.”
Ann Nicholas, Educ8 Customer Account Director, said of the collaboration:
“Our partnership with Monmouthshire Building Society is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when an employer and training provider share a genuine commitment to developing people. We're proud to support colleagues to build their skills, confidence, and career opportunities through apprenticeships, while helping the Society strengthen its talent and capability for the future. For us, it's about more than delivering qualifications – it's about creating meaningful learning experiences that have a lasting impact on individuals, the organisation, and the wider community.
“Together, Educ8 Training and Monmouthshire Building Society are demonstrating that when organisations invest in people, everyone benefits – learners gain confidence and career opportunities, employers develop a skilled and motivated workforce, and communities benefit from stronger local organisations committed to growth and development.”
