We celebrated the outstanding achievements of apprentices from across the country at our inaugural Apprentice of the Year Awards 2025, held in Manchester on 18 July.
The event recognised every Apprentice of the Month and Special Recognition winner from the past year, culminating in the announcement of the Special Recognition of the Year and the overall Apprentice of the Year awards.
Melanie Nicholson, Managing Director, welcomed apprentices, employers, colleagues, and guests to the celebration, highlighting the dedication and resilience shown by each individual.
“Today isn’t just about certificates or prizes; it’s about the journeys our apprentices have taken: their hard work, growth and commitment to making a difference,” she said. “Apprenticeships require determination, curiosity, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. Each of our apprentices has demonstrated these qualities in abundance.”
It just proves you’re never too old to learn.
"Anne Leach, a Level 3 Team Leader apprentice at public transport operator Go North West won the Special Recognition Award 2025.
“I’m shocked — totally shocked. I never, ever expected to win anything! But I’m very, very proud of what I’ve achieved.” Anne has worked in the bus industry for over 30 years:
“It’s an amazing learning journey. It just proves you’re never too old to learn.”
It’s been challenging, rewarding and life-changing.
The Apprentice of the Year 2025 prize went to Lilly Miller, a Level 3 Early Years Educator apprentice at Dandelions Day Nursery. “It’s overwhelming,” said Lilly on winning the award. When asked why she had chosen to enrol on an apprenticeship, Lilly added, “I wanted to learn with hands-on experience, learn on the job. An apprenticeship allowed me to do just that.”
“If I were to summarise my apprenticeship in three words, I’d say it’s been challenging, rewarding and life-changing.”
The awards also acknowledged the vital role employers and mentors play in supporting apprentices to succeed, as well as the dedication of our teams in creating an environment where learners can thrive.
The event marked a significant milestone for us, and further reinforced our commitment to developing the next generation of talent and celebrating success.
