Double award success

We are celebrating a double success after both our organisation and one of our colleagues were shortlisted at the 2026 Worcestershire Apprenticeships Awards.

Melissa Harper, a Multi Trade Improver - although currently on secondment as an Estates Administration Coordinator - has been named as a finalist for Intermediate Level Apprentice of the Year, while we are in contention for Large Apprenticeships Employer of the Year.

Melissa completed a Level 2 Property Maintenance Operative apprenticeship, developing practical skills across plumbing, carpentry, tiling, basic electrical work, heating installations, grounds maintenance, decorating and general repairs.

When she began her apprenticeship three years ago, Melissa had never used a power tool and was nervous about entering what she perceived to be a traditionally male dominated working environment.

Melissa has shared her experience at school careers events, speaking to young people about apprenticeships and the different routes available into a successful career.

Melissa said: "I am so proud to have been shortlisted. I have learnt skills across a wide range of trades and completed work I would never previously have believed I was capable of doing. Refurbishing an entire bathroom for a vulnerable customer was a particularly proud moment because I could see the difference the work would make to that person's life.

"My apprenticeship has given me practical skills, confidence and a much clearer understanding of what I want to achieve in my career. Being shortlisted is a lovely recognition of that journey and of everyone who has supported me along the way."

Our place on the Large Apprenticeship Employer of the Year shortlist recognises our long term commitment to using apprenticeships to develop talent, address skills gaps and create inclusive career pathways.

We currently support 83 apprentices across our Midlands operating area, exceeding our annual target of 75. We employ 43 apprentices in Worcestershire and have supported 130 people through apprenticeships in the county during the last five years.

Apprenticeships are offered across trades, housing, surveying, digital technology, finance, procurement, legal services, business administration and leadership; we have supported 47 different apprenticeship standards.

The programme has achieved an apprentice retention rate of 95 per cent. Satisfaction among apprentices averages 4.8 out of 5 after six months and 4.5 out of five upon completion.

Apprentices receive at least the National Living Wage, structured inductions, mentoring, wellbeing support and opportunities to progress into permanent roles or higher level qualifications.

Debbie Bird, our Apprenticeships and Professional Qualifications Coordinator said: "We are incredibly proud of Melissa and delighted that her hard work, determination and resilience have been recognised.

"She has embraced every opportunity to learn, pushed herself beyond her comfort zone and developed an impressive range of practical skills whilst being supported by both mentors and managers."

Alison Bishop, our Head of Learning and Organisational Development said: "To be shortlisted as Large Apprenticeship Employer of the Year, alongside Melissa's nomination for Apprentice of the Year, is something we're incredibly proud of.

"Apprenticeships are a vital part of how we grow talent, build future skills and create opportunities across our communities. We want our apprentices to gain much more than a qualification. We want them to build confidence, develop lasting careers and understand the difference they make every day to our customers and communities.

"These nominations recognise not only Melissa's achievement, but also the commitment of colleagues, managers, mentors and training providers who support apprentices to succeed."

The Intermediate Level Apprentice of the Year category is sponsored by Yamazaki Mazak UK, while the Large Apprenticeship Employer of the Year category is sponsored by Kidderminster College.

The winners will be announced at the 12th annual Worcestershire Apprenticeship Awards, taking place at West Midlands Safari Park on Thursday 26 November. The ceremony will be hosted by comedian, broadcaster and television presenter Matt Richardson.

Photo caption : Melissa Harper, a Multi Trade Improver has been named as a finalist for Intermediate Level Apprentice of the Year.