Michael Steel of Kiwi Education – recognition of great and valuable services

The annual High Sheriff Awards are a mark of distinction and recognition given to individual volunteers, groups and public servants based in who are making a significant contribution to society, focusing on law-and-order related projects, particularly those that enhance safety and cohesion in our communities.

The High Sheriff is one of the oldest Crown Offices, dating back to before the Battle of Hastings. Every year, these awards recognise those going beyond the call of duty in their activities and local community support. This year Michael Steel of Kiwi Education has been recognised among the award winners in recognition of great and valuable services here in Dorset.

Working within the education sector in for 20 years, Michael was once an Apprentice himself at 19 years of age. Now running his own training provider, Kiwi Education, which has direct contracts with the department of education which include Traineeships & Adult education.

Michael also has set up youth engagement programmes within the Bournemouth and wider Dorset area aimed at 16–24-year-old young people who are not in education, employment, or training. Designed to support those furthest from the labour market many of which have substance misuse and alcohol dependency, the traineeship programme has matched young people with Dorset based employers and moved them into full time employment. Michael drives social cohesion and is ploughing more educational resource into Dorset in 2023. Over the past ten years his company has supported local care homes within the Southbourne area access funding for care apprenticeships which included Acorn Lodge, a care home support people with learning difficulties. Enrolling care home staff to complete Apprenticeship training and adult education.  Throughout the Covid pandemic Michael and his team physically delivered educational materials using PPE to ensure staff continued with their educational progress. Michael was also honoured as a baton bearer in Portland to commemorate the Commonwealth Games in 2022 for his charitable work.

“It’s with great pride that I accept this award  on behalf of all at Kiwi Education. I want to thank my team at Kiwi for their hard work and dedication, and the apprentices here in Dorset who kindly nominated me.

Over the years we have diversified our approach into new programmes that bring new opportunities to young people across the South .  In 2021, we became a direct Traineeship provider working with 16-24 year-old learners seeking employment and apprenticeships. Whilst also becoming a direct provider for AEB courses (Adult Education Budget). In August, Kiwi is celebrating 10 years in education and training. Evolving to become a true green provider – meeting the needs and values of businesses with net-zero aspirations. With a new community minded focus, we’re leading the way for work-based learning”.

Michael Steel – Managing Director.

To find out more about how Kiwi Education can help launch your career contact 02380 170380 or Hello@kiwieducation.co.uk