A TV star is heading to Truro to shine a spotlight on the important contributions of vocational training and skilled trades to the nation's prosperity.

Presenter Steph McGovern is set to host the UK’s first Vocational Celebration Day at agricultural machinery company Teagle in Blackwater on Thursday, August 6.

Steph, who was an apprentice engineer at Black+Decker on Teesside, is set to host the proceedings with a live televised event which will incorporate celebrations from workplaces and colleges across devolved nations and regions.

The programme, a special edition of the hit podcast Steph on Skills: Powered by Enginuity, will be streamed live on YouTube and social platforms and will be fed to news networks, will feature young learners from across the country, employers, educators and government leaders.

Devised and driven by Enginuity and awarding organisation EAL, Vocational Celebration Day aims to raise the status and profile of the thousands of young people who are doing their bit to build a better, more prosperous Britain.

The first Vocational Celebration Day is seen as an important milestone in bringing about a seed change in parity of esteem between academic and vocational pathways to work.

This day, set to be observed every year on the first Thursday of August, honours those whose passion, expertise, and dedication in vocational fields form the backbone of the UK’s economy and society.

Steph said: “This is brilliant news and long overdue.

“Why should academics have all the fun and glory? We have graduation days, A-Level Day, GCSE Day – now Vocational Celebration Day.

“I’ve been banging on for years about the need to celebrate vocational qualifications in the same way we do purely academic success stories. “Let’s face it, vocational learners are the lifeblood of our country and yet have been left in the shadows.

“We want to make sure that this changes and these brilliant people get to celebrate in style.”

Teagle managing director Tom Teagle, said: “The team is looking forward to hosting this important celebration right here in Cornwall.

“Apprentices now make up 10 per cent of our workforce, demonstrating the important role the programme plays within Teagle which was recognised by Enginuity during a recent fact-finding mission.

“As a mainstay for skills provision in our Advanced Manufacturing operation, our programme is central to shaping the future of our business.”

Eric Nichols of the Cornwall Manufacturers Group said: “I am delighted that the great work being done here in Cornwall to ensure sustainable skills provision is being recognised at a national level.

“This is a big boost for all those working tirelessly to get young people in to work and those helping manufacturers across the county secure growth and prosperity for all.”

Ann Watson MBE, CEO of Enginuity said: “This is our gift to the entire skills and vocational community. Congratulations to all those qualifying this year. This is a major achievement for those pursuing vocational careers.

“Take a bow, enjoy your moment in the spotlight and celebrate in the knowledge that you are well on the way to securing a rewarding career.”