Rotork has announced that it has been awarded the 2009 Employer of the Year award from Avon Vale Training, a provider of engineering training and apprenticeships in the south of England. The award recognises “large employers demonstrating exceptional learner support and emphasis on training”. This year Avon Vale Training is celebrating 40 years of experience in helping industry to improve productivity by enriching employee skills. Rotork was one of the original eight companies that started Avon Vale in 1969, since then the organisation has grown to service over 120 businesses, providing engineering and manufacturing training for employees and helping up to 300 apprentices each year to achieve their potential. Avon Vale was one of the first to become a Centre of Vocational Excellence in 2002 and achieve the Training Quality Standard in 2008. Rotork’s award citation includes the following: “Apprentices are given the skills to match vacancies within the organisation and now former apprentices operate at every level around the world. Rotork’s development plans are over and above the requirements of the apprenticeship and it’s no wonder they produce excellent young engineers.” The award ceremony took place at a party to celebrate Avon Vale Training’s 40th Anniversary, held at Lackham House in Lacock, UK.