Bosses at a Shrewsbury insurance firm have hailed the impact of a teenager who has been named as one of the best in Shropshire at an award ceremony.

Maddie Armstrong is nearing the completion of her apprenticeship with Howden Insurance and was shortlisted in the business, legal and finance category at the Shropshire Apprenticeship Awards held in Telford on Thursday, October 2.

Branch manager, Ellie Cole, said Maddie had been a fantastic addition to the team since joining Howden a year ago.

“We are absolutely delighted with the progress Maddie has made, she really has come on leaps and bounds,” Ellie said.

“She has quickly developed into a dependable part of the team, undertaking a wide range of tasks such as sending renewal invitations to clients and dealing with claims.

“We have been impressed with her maturity and her ability to speak with clients in a positive way.

“Maddie is hard working and committed, as well as being a happy and bubbly member of the team - she’s a great example of everything a good apprentice should be.

“Overall, our experience of taking on three apprentices over the past couple of years has been really positive.”

Maddie added: “I have loved working at Howden. Starting my career here straight after finishing my A-Levels, I have grown both professionally and personally.

“This apprenticeship has been a huge contributing factor to that development, giving me the chance to build confidence, gain valuable experience, and feel supported.”

Howden has recently implemented a policy whereby every new member of staff works through an apprenticeship to gain an industry-recognised qualification with the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII).

Ellie added: “We put a lot of effort into supporting our employees with training opportunities so they can grow and develop their careers.

“Howden Insurance might be a familiar face on your local high street, but as one of the UK’s leading specialist insurance groups - with over 200 branches and offices nationwide - we offer a wide range of career paths across personal, business, corporate, rural, and niche insurance.

“Whether you’re looking to grow locally or explore opportunities across the UK and around the world, there’s no limit to where a career with Howden can take you.”

To learn more about Howden Insurance, simply give your local branch a ring or visit in person and speak with a member of the team or visit www.howdeninsurance.co.uk/shrewsbury