The event brought together families, employers and college staff at the Civic Centre in Trowbridge to recognise outstanding apprentices, work placement students and the employers supporting them.
Among the winners was Bogdan Soporan, 42, who was named Hospitality Apprentice of the Year after his remarkable progression at Allenbrook Nursing and Residential Care in Fordingbridge, near Salisbury.
Bogdan, who studied at the Salisbury campus, began his role carrying out maintenance work and washing up. After being encouraged by his manager to help with food preparation, he enrolled on a Level 2 Production Chef Apprenticeship and is now kitchen manager.
“This award is amazing and frankly I’m absolutely gobsmacked,” he said, “I can’t believe it has happened and it’s like a recognition of my work. I think it’s going to be very good for the future.”
His nominator praised his commitment and attitude, saying, “Bogdan is committed to continually developing his culinary skills. His passion for the industry and positive attitude make him an asset to any professional kitchen.”
Information Communication Technician Apprentice of the Year Daniella Barat, 23, from Chippenham, achieved a Distinction in her Level 3 apprenticeship while working at Rowden Surgery.
Described as an inspiring role model for future female apprentices in a male-dominated sector, Daniella said, “I was not expecting this award, but it feels like a massive achievement. Being able to do the tasks I’m learning about makes it click in my brain.”
T Level Health student Tiegan Painter, 19, from Melksham, was named Work Placement Student of the Year following placements at a local care home and on a rehabilitation ward at Chippenham Hospital.
“It gave me reassurance that I am there to help people,” said Tiegan, who hopes to become a paramedic after a gap year before university.
Other award winners included Caitlin Johnstone from Devizes, Accounting Apprentice of the Year, and Joe Collins from Chippenham, Engineering Apprentice of the Year, who achieved Distinction grades across his Level 3 Machinist Apprenticeship.
Principal and CEO Iain Hatt said the awards, held during National Apprenticeship Week, were the perfect opportunity to celebrate student success.
“Your hard work, commitment and achievements are truly inspiring,” he said, “You fully deserve this recognition and I have no doubt you will go on to even greater success.”
Other winners included:
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Agriculture Apprentice of the Year: Peighton Robertson
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Automotive Apprentice of the Year: Elliot Cuff
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Bricklayer Apprentice of the Year: Archie Farquharson
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Business Administration Apprentice of the Year: Hollie Errington
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Carpentry Apprentice of the Year: Ollie Savage
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Groundwork Apprentice of the Year: Alfie West
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Hair and Beauty Apprentice of the Year: Michelle Stone
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Health Care Apprentice of the Year: Linda Newman
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Plumbing Apprentice of the Year: Nathaniel Johnston
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Work Experience Student of the Year: Lilian Davies
