Winners of the Greater Lincolnshire Apprenticeship Champion Awards announced.
The achievements of apprentices, trainers, and employers across Greater Lincolnshire were recognised and celebrated at this year’s Greater Lincolnshire Apprenticeship Champion Awards.
The awards ceremony took place at The Drill, Lincoln, on Thursday 25 September, bringing together finalists, employers, training providers and local leaders to showcase the very best in apprenticeship success.
Cllr Liam Kelly, executive councillor for Growth, said:
“It was fantastic to spend time recognising all the hard work that goes into every apprenticeship journey.
“Everyone who was shortlisted should be incredibly proud of their achievements. It made picking our winners very difficult, but it was inspiring to hear so many fantastic success stories from right across Lincolnshire.”
“For me, it reinforced that apprenticeships are for everyone, regardless of age or background, and that they are an excellent route for companies to develop a highly-skilled workforce that fits their needs.”
Award highlights
Melvyn Prior presenting Melanie with her award
Apprentice Champion: Melanie Papworth (Lincolnshire County Council)
Melanie Papworth took home the top honour after completing a Senior Leader Apprenticeship while raising four children. Overcoming significant barriers, she is now a passionate advocate for apprenticeships across Greater Lincolnshire.
Melanie said: “I have always been dedicated to personal development to enhance my knowledge and skills, and after supporting my children through apprenticeships, the opportunity presented itself within the county council to enrol myself.
“I am so pleased I took advantage of the possibility to attend University and graduate, which is something I believed was out of reach for me.
“Now I use my experience to encourage others to think about apprenticeships. It can be challenging, but it’s extremely rewarding.
“This award is a testament to what anyone can achieve with the right support, belief, and hard work.”
Cllr Liam Kelly presenting Sarah Lewis with the Employer Champion award
Employer Champion: Lincolnshire Community and Hospitals NHS Group
Sponsored by the East Midlands Apprenticeship Ambassador Network, this award recognised the group’s wide range of apprenticeship programmes, spanning clinical and non-clinical roles from Level 2 to Level 7.
Sarah Lewis, of the group, said: “We really try to grow our own in the NHS, right from the bottom all the way to the top, so it means a lot to be recognised for our efforts. It makes all the hard work behind the scenes worthwhile and makes us proud to be part of the NHS in Lincolnshire.”
Training Champion: Tafadzwa Shuro (Coningsby Dental Practice)
Tafadzwa was celebrated for his learner-focused approach, supporting dental nurse apprentices in developing confidence, skills, and long-lasting careers.
Accepting the award on Tafadzwa’s behalf, Sharon Green, of the apprenticeship champion awards judging panel, said: “Tafadzwa’s dedication to going the extra mile really shone through.
“He makes the effort to ensure that every apprentice feels valued and supported, and as a result has helped shape the careers of many confident and capable dental nurses.”
Special Recognition Awards
- Lilly Robinson-Brown (Pozzani Pure Water)
- Stephen Mowlaei (Lincoln City Foundation)
- Rosie Willerton (BeBright Pre-School)
- Archie’s Café Bar Bistro
Highly Commended
- Natasha Lock (University of Lincoln)
- Sarah Louise Mitchell (Lincolnshire County Council)
- City of Lincoln Council
The Greater Lincolnshire Apprenticeship Champion Awards are delivered in partnership by the Lincolnshire Public Service Compact Group, Lincolnshire County Council, North Lincolnshire Council and North East Lincolnshire Council.