Cheshire College – South & West hosted a remarkable evening at their 2025 Apprenticeship Awards, bringing National Apprenticeship Week celebrations to a close. The prestigious event recognised outstanding apprentices and employers for their dedication and commitment to developing skilled professionals across various sectors.
Held at the College’s Crewe Campus, the event featured a vibrant drinks reception, a two-course meal from the College’s Academy Restaurant, and an inspiring awards ceremony.
Keynote speaker Sonnaz Nooranvary, a renowned entrepreneur and craftswoman from The Repair Shop, shared her personal apprenticeship journey, emphasising how apprenticeships can shape a fulfilling career. She said, “Apprenticeships are a vital part of our economy – and something that I’m passionate about supporting. It was an honour to be invited to the Cheshire College Apprenticeship Awards to celebrate the achievements of outstanding apprentices and the employers who make it possible with their support.”
The awards recognised apprentices from fields such as Engineering, Health, Education, Business, and Retail, with special recognition given for exceptional progress and contributions. Awards were also presented to employers who have shown exceptional support for apprenticeships.
Reflecting on the evening, award winner Christina Fletcher, Early Years Practioner Apprentice commented: “I still can’t believe I’ve actually won, I feel quite humble, and I really appreciate being selected as a winner.”
Jasbir Dhesi OBE, Principal and CEO of Cheshire College, commended both the apprentices and employers.
He commented: “The apprentices we celebrate represent the future of the region’s workforce.”
“These awards highlight not only the hard work of our apprentices but also the vital role of the employers who invest in their growth and development. Together, they are building a stronger, more skilled workforce for Cheshire and beyond.”
On reflection of the event, guest speaker Sonnaz added “The Cheshire College Apprenticeship Awards have been a brilliant opportunity to shine a spotlight on the importance of apprenticeships for our economy, businesses and for countless people for whom a more traditional academic pathway isn’t quite right.”
“I’m so proud to have been part of such a celebratory evening for something that had such a huge impact on my life and career. Congratulations again to all the deserving winners!”
The Apprenticeship Awards 2025 shone a light on the importance of apprenticeships in building a skilled and resilient workforce, reinforcing Cheshire College’s commitment to training and development for both apprentices and employers.
The full list of 2025 award winners:
· Cameron Bannister-Wright – Engineering and Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year
· Christina Fletcher – Education and Training Apprentice of the Year
· Eryn Andrews – Business, Administration and Law Apprentice of the Year
· Joanne Goold – Health, Public Services and Care Apprentice of the Year
· James Lear – Construction, Planning and Built Environment Apprentice of the Year
· Harry France – Award for Outstanding Progress
· Ruby Milne – Award for Exceptional Contribution
· Karis Parry – Retail and Commercial Enterprise Apprentice of the Year
· Stephanie Robyn – Cheshire College Apprentice of the Year
· Joshua Stanley – Partner Apprentice of the Year
· Belong – Employer of the Year
· Utilita – Apprenticeship Employer of the Year
· Newfield Fabrication – New Apprenticeship Employer of the Year
· KR Fleet Solutions – SME Employer of the Year
· Sylvia (Sly) Mulcock – Female STEM Apprentice of the Year
· Boughey – Large Employer of the Year
