A pair of apprenticeship programmes were put in the spotlight at the Cultural Apprenticeship Programme Appreciation Event at the weekend.

The event, organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, paid tribute to BioQuest, which with CariGenetics sought to map out the genome of the Bermuda cedar, and the Friends of St Peter’s Church, which set about repairing and restoring the historical church’s clock.

Owen Darrell, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, said: “The Cultural Apprenticeship Programme focuses on cultural preservation and intergenerational learning in Bermuda, as tradition-bearers and apprentices come together to celebrate the spirit of Bermuda's traditions.

"The programme was established in 2008 and is a testament to Bermuda's commitment to nurturing the next generation of tradition-bearers.

“It goes beyond merely passing on knowledge; it's about building deep connections, fostering creativity and preserving the essence of Bermuda's cultural heritage."

The BioQuest project, led by Myles Darrell with apprentice Sierra Pacheco, helped to give Ms Pacheco hands-on experience with researching and producing the first high-quality reference genome for Bermuda’s national tree.

Ms Pacheco will use her experience to help students at Bermuda College identify pure and hybrid trees, collect samples and process them.

Malvyn Reed, of Thwaites & Reed, British clockmakers, worked with apprentices Ian Birch and Phillip Anderson Jr to pass on knowledge about the historical clock and its maintenance.

The clock, built by Thwaites & Reed, was described as a centrepiece of the local community.

Mr Darrell added: “The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport extends its gratitude to tradition-bearers and apprentices for their curiosity, talents, wisdom and passion.

“Their dedication ensures the beauty and purpose of Bermuda's traditions will continue to thrive.”