At a glittering ceremony at the Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford, BDCU was named ‘SME Employer of the Year,’ with employee Ariba Matloob winning ‘Advanced Apprentice of the Year.’
Bradford College apprentice, Ariba, recently joined the BDCU member services team and was recognised for her enthusiasm and commitment to delivering high-quality work, while actively learning processes and contributing to the team’s overall goals.
BDCU also won the SME employer award owing to its strong commitment to apprenticeships. As a valued partner of Bradford College, BDCU employs apprentices across its departments, with apprentices now accounting for around 40% of its workforce.
“We were absolutely thrilled to win the SME employer category and to see our brilliant apprentice, Ariba, also come home with a trophy. Our clear recruitment and mentoring strategy ensure apprentices gain the practical skills needed to succeed.
“Our focus on developing talent – in partnership with Bradford College – has led to high retention and promotions, making BDCU a shining example of how apprenticeships can drive business success and benefit the local community.”
“It’s fantastic to see another of our amazing apprentices get the attention they deserve. Ariba is a perfect case study of what can be achieved with an apprenticeship, especially when supported by a respected employer like BDCU.
“Not only is BDCU doing a brilliant job of helping the community – promoting financial wellbeing and running a number of successful financial inclusion projects – it has a clear focus on helping local employees by actively supporting vital apprenticeship pathways.”
The annual West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards showcase the outstanding work of apprentices, training providers, and businesses that champion apprenticeship programmes. This year, 14 awards were announced by radio DJ and host, Rich Williams, honouring the exceptional apprenticeship network flourishing across the region.
Learn more about the apprenticeship programmes available at Bradford College or how apprentices could support your business.
Bradford College has been named ‘Employer of the Year’ at the 2026 Telegraph & Argus Bradford BUSINESSiQ Awards. The annual awards celebrate the success, achievement, and innovation of people and companies throughout the district. Each nominee is recognised for putting the region on the map, boosting the economy, and making a positive contribution to the […]
Adult Skills learners at Bradford College took an exciting step towards their future at a vibrant Careers Fair designed to inspire ambition, build confidence and connect students with real-world opportunities. Held on 23 June, the event brought together local employers, community organisations and College services, giving learners the chance to explore career pathways, expand their […]
