Hugh Baird College, an Ofsted Outstanding provider, has been marking National Apprenticeship Week (9-15 February 2026) by celebrating the impact of apprenticeships across the Liverpool City Region, from showcasing apprentice success stories and employer partnerships, to recognising outstanding achievement through a dedicated awards programme.
With this year’s national theme, “Skills for Life,” the week highlights how apprenticeships help people of all ages build long-term capability, confidence and career progression, whilst supporting employers to develop a skilled workforce for the future.
As part of the celebrations, the College has been presenting Apprentice and Employer Awards across a range of sectors, recognising learners who have excelled in their training and workplace performance, as well as employers who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to supporting apprentices.
Hugh Baird College Apprenticeship Award winners include:
- Construction Trades Apprentice of the Year: Harry Pike, BPL Construction.
- Motor Vehicle Apprentice of the Year: Ethan Smith, TLG Automotive.
- Business and Professional Services Apprentice of the Year: Susan Millard, NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group.
- Hairdressing and Beauty Apprentice of the Year: Matilda O’Neill, Alex & Co Hair Salon.
- Health and Social Care Apprentice of the Year: Michelle Fitzsimmons, Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital.
- Adult Apprentice of the Year: Rheannah McCourt, NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group.
- (Apprentice) Rising Star: Anthony Roberts, Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust.
- (Pre-Apprentice) Rising Star: Nicky McEvoy, Royal Liverpool University Hospital.
- Award for Outstanding Progress: Ben Morley, Story Decorating Group.
Susan Millard, winner of Professional Services Apprentice of the Year, was recognised for her outstanding contribution to the Ophthalmic Care Clinic within the Elective Care Department at Aintree University Hospital, part of the Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Susan designed and implemented a highly successful mentoring programme, strengthening staff confidence, supporting both new and experienced colleagues, and helping team members progress towards their professional goals. She also made history as Hugh Baird College’s first apprentice to qualify in the Learning and Skills apprenticeship pathway.
Ethan Smith, winner of Motor Vehicle Apprentice of the Year, was fast-tracked from a Level 2 Automotive course onto a Level 3 Service and Maintenance Technician apprenticeship after tutors recognised his exceptional ability. In the workplace, Ethan is already taking on complex technical work, including advanced diagnostics and challenging repairs on high-end prestige vehicles, up to and including engine rebuilds. His employer, TLG Automotive in Burscough, has praised his exceptional knowledge, work ethic and determination to keep learning.
The College also recognised employers for the vital role they play in creating high-quality apprenticeship opportunities and supporting the next generation of skilled workers.
Employer of the Year winners include:
- Employer of the Year (Small): George Jones
- Employer of the Year (Medium): Sterling Plastering
- Employer of the Year (Large): NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group
Annette Pollitt, Apprenticeship and Widening Participation Lead at NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group, said:
“We’re delighted to receive this recognition and would like to thank Hugh Baird College for their continued support of our workforce development. The apprenticeship programmes have allowed our staff to enhance their skills, progress in their careers, and deliver the highest standard of care to our patients. By growing our own talent, we’re not only strengthening our workforce but also creating a more resilient one that can meet the evolving needs of the NHS.
The College’s flexible and innovative approach to training ensures that our apprentices are well-prepared for their development, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration in building a strong and skilled workforce.”
Hugh Baird College offers apprenticeship programmes designed to support both new apprentices and experienced staff to upskill, with training delivered by sector-specialist tutors and tailored support for employers. Apprentices can earn industry-recognised qualifications while developing practical, job-ready skills in the workplace, with courses available across a wide range of areas including construction trades, building services, motor vehicle, business and professional services, hair and beauty, health and social care and childcare.
Lynn Masterton, Vice Principal of Commercial and Growth at Hugh Baird College, commented:
“Apprenticeships are a powerful way to build the skilled workforce our region needs, giving people the chance to earn while they learn and gain qualifications that lead to long-term career progression.
At Hugh Baird College, we work closely with employers to deliver training that is responsive to industry needs across areas including construction, motor vehicle, business, health and social care, and hair and beauty. Our awards are a celebration of the ambition of our apprentices and the commitment of our employer partners to developing talent.”
National Apprenticeship Week is a flagship moment in the skills calendar, bringing together employers, providers and apprentices to spotlight how work-based learning strengthens local communities and supports economic growth.
To find out more about studying an apprenticeship at Hugh Baird College or to become an employer partner, please follow the link below:
https://www.hughbaird.ac.uk/apprenticeships
