St Helens College and Knowsley Community College proudly hosted its Employer and Apprenticeship Awards Evening, a vibrant celebration of excellence, collaboration, and achievement. The event brought together apprentices, employers, tutors, and guests to honour outstanding contributions across a wide range of sectors. Awards were presented to exceptional apprentices in recognition of their dedication and determination, as well as to the valued employers, ranging from small local businesses to global organisations, whose support is vital to the success of apprenticeship programmes.
Director of Apprenticeships and Skills Clare Webster, who hosted the evening remarked:
“Our employers are more than partners – they are co-designers of our curriculum. Their input ensures our apprenticeship programmes are relevant, responsive, and rooted in real-world needs. This is an approach that works and we want to deepen this collaboration even further.”
Beyond the awards and applause, the evening was a celebration of possibility – of what happens when education, industry, and community come together to support learners in pursuing their dreams.
Apprenticeships are more than pathways to employment; they are platforms for ambition, growth, and transformation. We believe in the power of partnership to unlock potential, shape futures, and build an environment where every student and apprentice has the opportunity to thrive.
Award Winners
Apprentice of the Year Awards
- Business and Professional: Victoria Whittaker (Knauf Insulation)
- Construction Services: Chelsie Miller (March Engineering)
- Construction Trades: Andrew Bridge (Collins Home Improvements)
- Engineering: Liam Smith (Halton Panelcraft)
- Health and Social Care: Courtney Cruickshanks (Garway Young People Ltd)
Employer of the Year Awards
- Internship Employer: Amazon
- Small Employer (up to 19 employees): Garway Young People Ltd
- Medium Employer (20-49 employees): Mottram Decorators
- Large Employer (50+ employees): Murphy Group
