Celebrating success at the University of Sunderland Apprenticeship Awards

Businesses and organisations from around the region came together to celebrate the success of their apprentices at the University of Sunderland.

The University held its third annual Apprenticeship Awards (12 February), which recognises the exceptional achievements of apprentices, mentors, tutors, and employers shaping the future of their industries.

Sarah Beck, Academic Director of Apprenticeships at the University, said: “The awards ceremony was a great opportunity to celebrate the success of our apprentices and the way they apply their learning in real-world situations in the workplace.

“We also recognised the contribution of employers, workplace mentors, academic and professional services staff who support learners on a daily basis – it really does take teamwork for apprenticeships to be successful.

“We were delighted to receive so many nominations in each award category, making the judges’ decisions quite a challenge. The winners and all those shortlisted deserve huge congratulations, and it was a fantastic evening of celebration for everyone involved.”

This year’s winners were:

• Rising Star Award: Josh Brown - Northumbrian Water, Digital Technology Solutions Professional
• Innovation Award: Josh Brown - Northumbrian Water, Digital Technology Solutions Professional
• Workplace Mentor of the Year: Sam Banson - P&G, Engineering Practice and Chloe Herron - Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Occupational Therapy

• Community Impact Award: Jodie Stewart - Northumbrian Water, Digital Technology Solutions Professional
• Wellbeing Champion: Daniel Mitchell - South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Podiatry
• Research Impact: Ben Davison - AESC Group, Senior Leader MBA
• Professional Services Award: Rachel Le Quesne – Marketing, Communications and Employer Engagement Co-Ordinator, University of Sunderland
• Tutor of the Year: Eddie Hai - Lecturer/ Clinical Link Tutor Occupational Therapy
• Employer of the Year: Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
• Apprentice of the Year: Claire Moody - Durham County Council, Social Work
• Special Recognition Award: Nina Bedding - Senior Lecturer in Occupational Therapy

The University launched its higher and degree apprenticeships(opens in new tab) programme in 2017. Starting with just a handful of employers, the University scheme has grown year on year, now partnering with more than 150 organisations.

There are currently over 1,000 apprentices on a higher and degree apprenticeship programme covering a range of sectors and job roles, with over 325 enrolments so far this year.

Find out more about the wide range of higher and degree apprenticeships the University of Sunderland offers here.(opens in new tab)