Inspirational, Innovative and Future Focused: Blackburn College Apprentice Awards 2026

Blackburn College celebrated the exceptional achievements of its apprentices, employers and partners at its annual Apprentice Awards, highlighting the continued growth, innovation and impact of apprenticeships across Lancashire.

The event showcased apprentices who are not only excelling in their roles but also helping to shape the future workforce through their passion, resilience and dedication. Employers were recognised for their commitment to developing talent, driving productivity and investing in skills that support both business success and regional economic growth.

The winner of the Apprentice Development Champion Award, Paul Wilson Electrical & Renewable Energy Solutions Ltd, said: “We like to take apprentices on because it is nice to see them develop and teach them the ways you want them to be in a family run business.

“It is great to see them meeting and talking to customers and, over time, becoming more confident. The biggest impact they have on the business is bringing young ideas. They learn different approaches at college and often have a different way of doing things than older people like me! For any employer considering taking on an apprentice, I would say to go for it.”

Apprentice Awards Judge Richard Singleton, owner and managing director of whY-us? Marketing, said: “A great event at the Blackburn College Apprentice Awards. Congratulations to all finalists and winners. To be on the judging panel was an honour and reading the assessor submissions of individuals was inspiring.”

Hosted once again at Blackburn Rovers’ Ewood Park, the event brought together apprentices, employers, families, governors and partners to celebrate success across a wide range of sectors. Awards were also presented to employers, alongside the prestigious Principal’s Award. Each winner received a personalised award, recognising not just achievement, but the journey, commitment and potential they represent.

Alex Mazzafiiore won the Engineering Award and works at Airtech Advanced Materials UK. He said: “After seeing the facilities and workshop that Blackburn College provides, it was a no-brainer. I would definitely advise anyone to do it. Being an apprentice gives you a really good start. It is a good place and you are going to excel.”

Accounting Award winner Caitlin Glover, of WEC Group, said: “The apprenticeship route is always a good one to follow and progress your career because you gain the knowledge from studying while also getting hands-on experience in the office.

“Blackburn College is known for the quality of its apprenticeships and how well supported they are. That’s why I chose to study there. I have learned a wide range of skills and have been able to apply what I learn through studying directly to my job.”

The evening highlighted the evolving skills landscape and the important role apprenticeships continue to play in addressing skills gaps, supporting innovation and driving social mobility. The winners’ experiences demonstrated how Blackburn College apprentices are making meaningful contributions to their industries from day one.

Nicola Clayton, executive director of business development and external engagement, said:
“Congratulations to all our finalists and winners, and thank you to the employers who continue to invest in developing the next generation of talent.

“What we are seeing now is the real, sustained impact of apprenticeships – not just on individuals, but on businesses and our wider regional economy.

“At Blackburn College, we are continuing to grow our apprenticeship provision, supported by ongoing investment in priority sectors including Cyber, Digital, Engineering and Health. This allows us to remain responsive to industry need while providing outstanding opportunities for our learners.

“This event is a celebration of partnership, ambition and achievement, and we are proud to see our apprentices making such a significant contribution.”

As Blackburn College continues to expand its apprenticeship offer and strengthen employer partnerships, the 2026 Awards evening stands as a testament to the transformative power of apprenticeships – inspiring future learners, supporting business growth and shaping a highly skilled workforce for the years ahead.

Employers: want to be a part of something special? Get in touch with our business development team and start your journey with Blackburn College. Call: 01254 292500 or email [email protected]

A list of all awards winners can be found in issue 129 of Lancashire Business View.