Ipswich Building Society has achieved the New Anglia Youth Pledge Marque, recognising its commitment to supporting the education and development of young people.

The Youth Pledge Marque was launched in July this year by the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership, with support from Suffolk and Norfolk county councils and the Department for Work and Pensions, to promote apprenticeships, work experience and business-education links.

The building society currently employs eight apprentices in a number of roles, including finance and marketing, and has offered six work experience placements over the last 12 months.

Among the apprentices is Noah Davis who joined the society in February having started to study at evening classes for a an accounting qualification while working as a paint sprayer.

He said: “Having come from a trade background I really didn’t think I would stand a chance of gaining a role until I had achieved a Level 2 accounting (AAT) qualification. My plan now is to complete my studies, to gain a professional diploma in accounting and then progress on to either an ACCA or CIMA qualification.”

Paul Winter, chief executive of Ipswich Building Society, said: “Our business relies on diverse talent to make sure that we are constantly able to meet the changing needs of our members and to reflect the community we serve.

“We’re delighted to have received the Youth Pledge Marque and I extend my congratulations to Noah and our other apprentices who are making great strides in their careers with us.”