Published: Wednesday, 3rd June 2026
Lilly Skeels has become a fully qualified Environmental Health Officer with the achievement of a Distinction in the final stage of her six-years of studying.
Lilly, a member of the Food and Safety Team in Environmental Health, joined the council in August 2019 after completing her A‑levels. She began her studies with a Level 4 qualification in Regulatory Compliance.
After two years of study, she chose to progress further, embarking on a Level 6 Apprenticeship in Environmental Health and achieving a Bachelor of Science Environmental Health Practitioner as part of this. Her passion for the field led her to a Professional Registration with the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) and she has now fully completed her apprenticeship with the ‘Environmental Health Pathway Professional Discussion’, for which she was awarded a Distinction.
Lilly’s success reflects her exceptional commitment, professionalism, and determination throughout her apprenticeship. Her achievement was formally recognised this week by Chief Executive Kate Blakemore and Cllr Alistair Beales, Leader of the Borough Council, who presented her certificate in person.
Chief Executive Kate Blakemore said:
“Lilly’s commitment to her development and her contribution to the Food and Safety Team are outstanding. 6 years of studying shows real dedication, and Lilly should hold her certificate like a trophy.
“This accomplishment not only celebrates Lilly’s hard work but also highlights the strength and impact of the council’s apprenticeship programmes.
“Apprentices like Lilly demonstrate the value of supporting professional development. These pathways exist to create opportunities for individuals to develop specialist skills, gain hands‑on experience and build rewarding careers whilst ensuring that public service is delivered by highly-trained and motivated professionals.
“We are incredibly proud of her and I will admit to a personal soft spot for what she has achieved, having started as an Environmental Health Officer myself!”
Cllr Alistair Beales added:
“Lilly’s Distinction is a testament to her commitment, professionalism, and determination throughout her apprenticeship, and to the high standards of our Environmental Health service.
“We want our services to be the best and you achieve that by investing in your people and giving them opportunities to learn, develop and grow. We are delighted to celebrate this success with her.”
The council extends its warmest congratulations to Lilly on this significant milestone and looks forward to her continued contributions as a fully-qualified Environmental Health Officer.