We are celebrating a double win at Apprentice of the Year Awards

We are proud to announce that two of our talented apprentices have been named Apprentice of the Year at the Herefordshire, Ludlow and North Shropshire College Awards.  This recognition highlights their hard work, dedication and outstanding contributions in their respective fields.  

Macualey Williams received his award in the Electrical category; he began his Level 3 Electrical apprenticeship in August 2024 and is due to complete the programme by April 2026.  

Macualey said: “I’m really proud to have been recognised as Apprentice of the Year.  The electrical trade is something I’ve always wanted to pursue and this apprenticeship has been a fantastic opportunity to learn and develop.  I’m looking forward to completing my training and continuing to progress in the industry.”  

Finbarr Hoskins, who has been mentoring Macualey said: “Macualey has shown a strong work ethic and a great attitude to learning.  He’s technically capable, calm under pressure and takes safety seriously.  What stands out most is his consistency, he turns up, gets stuck in and always wants to improve.”  

Melissa Harper also received the Apprentice of the Year award under the Property Maintenance category; Melissa started her Level 2 Property Maintenance Operative apprenticeship in August 2023 and is due to complete it by the end of the year.  

Melissa said: “Winning Apprentice of the Year is a real honour.  The apprenticeship has helped me build practical skills and confidence and I’m proud of what I’ve achieved so far.  I’ve had brilliant support at work and at college and I’m excited to complete my apprenticeship this year and take the next step in my career.”  

One of Melissa’s mentors, Mark Mason, said: “Melissa has been exceptional from day one.  She’s dependable, proactive and takes pride in doing things properly.  She asks the right questions, learns quickly and applies feedback straightaway.  This award is thoroughly deserved and we’re all proud of her.”  

These awards reflect not only the apprentices’s dedication but also the vital role played by workplace mentors in supporting skills development, confidence and career progression. 

Andy Faulkner, our Localities Operations Manager said: “We are incredibly proud of Melissa and Macualey for this well deserved recognition.  Their achievements reflect not only their personal dedication but also the strength of our apprenticeship programme in developing skilled professionals for a bright future.”  

The double win reinforces our commitment to nurturing talent and supporting apprenticeships as a pathway to rewarding careers.  We currently have 70 apprentices and work with more than 20 training providers. 

Photo caption : l to r, Geoff Williams, Tutor, Herefordshire, Ludlow and North Shropshire College, Melissa Harper, and Kate Price, Training and Business Development Officer, Herefordshire, Ludlow and North Shropshire College.