Apprentices have been celebrated at Lakes College at an awards ceremony which recognised their achievements, commitment and ambition.
More than 150 apprentices, employers, guests, college staff and governors gathered at the college to mark the occasion at the college at Lillyhall, near Workington, with food prepared and served by the catering and hospitality students at the college.
The top award of the afternoon went to Delkia apprentice Ashlee Hocking, reflecting the high standard of talent and dedication demonstrated across the apprenticeship programme.
Ashlee said her apprenticeship gives the opportunity to develop practical skills while gaining real workplace experience at the same time.
She said: “Being able to apply what I learn in my job has helped me build confidence, improve communication, and understand how our business operates day to day.
“Winning both Apprentice of the Year and Business Apprentice of the Year has been a huge milestone in my journey.
“Getting the recognition has made me realise how much I have gained and learned over the last 17 months. It’s been a rewarding experience, and it’s motivated me to continue pushing myself to achieve even more.”
Vice principal Iain Glendinning was the host of the event and praised every apprentice in attendance for being nominated.
He said: “Our Apprenticeship Awards celebrate the incredible achievements of learners who are shaping the future of our region’s workforce.
“Apprentices bring skill, dedication and fresh thinking to every industry they touch, and it’s a privilege to recognise their hard work alongside the employers who champion and support them.
“At Lakes College, we are proud to provide high‑quality training that empowers people to thrive in their careers, and our award winners truly demonstrate the impact that apprentices can have on individuals, businesses and our community.”
Josh MacAlister, Whitehaven and Workington MP, attended the event as special guest.
He spoke about the importance of apprenticeships for this generation, emphasising the vital role they play in developing skills, supporting key industries, and creating opportunities for young people across local communities.
He said: “It was a real pleasure to attend the Lakes College Apprenticeship Awards to celebrate the achievements of so many talented apprentices from across West Cumbria.
“With around 1,200 apprentices training at the college, the scale of ambition and hard work on display is clear to see.
“Congratulations to everyone who won an award, who was highly commended, and who was nominated – that recognition reflects real commitment and skill.
“Apprenticeships are vital to our area. They give local people the chance to earn while they learn and build careers in industries that are central to West Cumbria’s future – from energy and advanced manufacturing to health, digital and business.
“Lakes College plays a key role in making sure local people are ready to take up the opportunities ahead, and I look forward to continuing to work with them to back apprentices and expand high-quality training in our area.”
Chair of governors Nigel Holliday presented the awards and congratulated all nominees and winners, commending their hard work and the positive impact they are making within their organisations.
The awards ceremony showcased the strength of partnerships between Lakes College and employers across the region, and the vital role apprenticeships continue to play in developing a skilled and ambitious workforce.
Apprenticeship Award winners
- Business Apprentice of the Year – Ashlee Hocking (Delkia)
- Care Apprentice of the Year – Danielle Dawber (Risedales)
- Early Years Apprentice of the Year – Faye Hall (Jericho Primary School)
- Service Industries Apprentice of the Year – Gracie Nixon (Scarlett Beauty)
- Higher Education Apprentice of the Year – Ben Scott (United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory)
- Carlisle Apprentice of the Year – Noah Baines (NW Total)
- Construction Apprentice of the Year – Bailey McCourt (Morgan Sindall)
- Engineering Apprentice of the Year – Zach Benson-Lester (CORE Nuclear Solutions)
- Sellafield Ltd Apprentice of the Year – Jack Murray (Sellafield Ltd)
- Future Talent Award – Ashley Todd (Bendalls Engineering)
- Outstanding Commitment Award – Stacey Brewer (Morgan Sindall)
- Above and Beyond Award – Ruby Watson (The Shepley Group)
- Outstanding Resilience Award – Warren Fowler (Cumberland Council)
- Excellence in Growth Award – Theo Newton (FORTH Engineering)
- Lakes College Apprentice of the Year – Ashlee Hocking (Delkia)
