Some of the UK’s top apprentices attended an awards ceremony at West Suffolk College on Friday 3 February 2023.

They were joined by businesses, staff and guests for an occasion that took place at Edmunds restaurant. The occasion celebrated achievements of individuals ahead of a campaign called National Apprenticeship Week that starts on Monday. Ten awards were given handed out in total and overall winner (Demi Walters) was crowned Apprentice of the Year for her achievements during her programme.

One of the winners was Cheyl Holgate, 42, from Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire. Cheryl received the equality, diversity and inclusion apprentice of the year award. Cheryl has worked for Hughes for 15 years. The single mum of three felt ‘stuck in a rut’ - so when the opportunity came up to study on an apprenticeship, she grabbed it.

The highlight of doing the course for Cheryl was “gaining my self-confidence back - I was extremely nervous committing to this in the beginning, especially as I had to take on Maths and English alongside. But, it’s been the best decision I’ve made for many many years.”

Another winner was Marc Sparling, 31, from Holland on Sea. Marc said: “It has been tough but I’ve enjoyed the challenge. College wise, my tutor has been my shining light and she told me the news (that I’d won this award). I was ecstatic and overjoyed. It’s real recognition for the hard work. Doing this (apprenticeship) has given me my self-confidence back. To others who have been out of education I’d say that although the self-doubt may hit you hard, just jump into it, do what you need to do and it might change your life.”

“In terms of the future, I feel I can effect change on a massive level and I’ve made it no secret that I want to achieve directorship in the business. I also want to help people to push themselves to be the best version of themselves and make a positive difference to others lives.”

Dr Nikos Savvas, the Principal of West Suffolk College and CEO of the Eastern Colleges Group, said: “Dr Nikos Savvas, the Principal of West Suffolk College and CEO of the Eastern Colleges Group, added: “Our apprentices are shaping the future of businesses and organisations and changing the landscape for what it means to be in Further Education. It’s been very special to celebrate some fantastic achievements with these awards and acknowledge those who have grasped opportunities with strength and determination. It’s also important to recognise where businesses go above and beyond to make apprenticeships really shine - investing time, resources and expertise. In the current economic climate, businesses need high calibre individuals to work for them, it’s never been more important to invest in apprenticeships, and in our young people, and we applaud the companies who have been forward thinking to invest in the most important commodity they have – their staff.”

The Executive Director of Business Development at West Suffolk College, Phil Stittle, said: “This was the second year in a row that we have hosted this evening and it’s empowering to hear the stories from the winners who have all benefitted greatly by studying these pathways. We support around a thousand students via these programmes every year and work with hundreds of businesses and it’s great that this event is able to shine a light on these amazing qualifications.

My message to others is that our apprenticeship programme is growing all the time so come and talk to us to see how we can help you achieve – just like our incredible winners this year.”

All awards were handed out by Sarah Howard MBE, a college governor and the first woman and first businessperson from Suffolk to be elected as the chair of the British Chamber of Commerce. Sarah – who also is also the chair of Abbeycroft Leisure said; “As I go around the country and see lots of successful apprenticeship schemes and apprentices – it proves to me that this educational pathway offers individuals the possibility of forging a successful career.

“I think with the current climate, apprenticeships are becoming even more relevant and important and I was delighted to be part of this event. I love to see apprentices being recognised for what they have achieved. I can talk about it all day long but to actually see it happening in person really spurs me on.”