Drew Fleming has been announced as the winner of the Appleby Academy 2018/19, earning a 10-week paid summer placement with the offshore law firm.

The Appleby Academy, launched in 2012, is run in partnership with Junior Achievement Isle of Man.

Each year Appleby invites Year 13 students aged 17 and 18, to take part in the 12-week programme.

They work alongside a mentor from Appleby’s Isle of Man office to produce a report based on a real-life business scenario.

The top three students then present their ideas to a panel of judges, for the chance to win a summer placement at the firm.

The judges heard a range of informative and creative presentations at the final at Appleby’s office in Athol Street, Douglas.

Drew Fleming of Castle Rushen High School outlined his solution to marketing communications.

Ballakermeen High School student Erynne Gilbert’s presentation focused on human resources and recruitment.

Megan Oldfield from Ramsey Grammar High School examined how a company could implement flexible working.

Drew was announced as the winner following lengthy deliberations by the judging panel.

The judges comprised of Bill Shimmins MHK, Sheila Lowe of the Isle of Man Treasury, Appleby corporate partner Claire Milne and Appleby managing partner Faye Moffett.

Faye Moffett said: ’The standard of presentations was incredibly high.

’All three students clearly put a tremendous amount of effort into their reports regarding their chosen business scenario.

’Drew, Erynne and Megan should be very proud of their work; it was a difficult decision.

’Congratulations to Drew on being crowned the winner of the 2018/19 programme.

’We look forward to welcoming him to the firm in the summer."

Drew Fleming, winner of the 2018/19 Appleby Academy, said: ’The Appleby Academy has been a fantastic experience, helping me gain confidence in presenting and increasing my business knowledge.

’I am looking forward to my placement in the summer, where I can learn more about how a business operates.

’I am looking to study marketing and events after completing my A-Levels and this work placement will allow me to spend time with the Appleby marketing team and gain first-hand experience.’

Sue Cook, chief executive of Junior Achievement Isle of Man, said: ’The Appleby Academy provides an amazing opportunity to work in a paid placement over the summer period.

’The experience Drew will gain while working for this international organisation will prove invaluable when he leaves education and seeks employment.

’I would like to thank Appleby for all their hard work and the support they have given to the students participating in this process.’

To learn more about the academy, visit applebyglobal.com/applebyacademy