Bradford College Earns 8 Finalist Spots at West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards  

It’s a standout year for Bradford College as eight finalists, including both apprentices and valued employer partners, head to the 2025 West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards on Thursday, May 1, at Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford.

Representing a diverse range of sectors, from construction and engineering to dental and healthcare, these exceptional finalists reflect the significance of high-quality training, strong employer partnerships, and the life-changing impact of apprenticeships in building a skilled, future-ready workforce. 

Ahmed Shakir – Construction Apprentice of the Year 

Ahmed is currently completing his Level 3 Bench Joinery apprenticeship through Bradford College with award-winning employer Abrahams & Carlisle Ltd. Following national success at SkillBuild 2024, Ahmed Shakir has been shortlisted for a chance to represent Squad UK at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.

With multiple student awards and growing industry recognition, he is a standout apprenticeship success and a rising talent in his field. His superb joinery work consistently meets the high standards of his employer, Abrahams & Carlisle.

Jane Marshall – Health & Public Service Apprentice of the Year 

Jane Marshall recently completed her Level 3 Senior Healthcare Support Worker Apprenticeship through Bradford College, working at Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. With a career change in her late 40s, Jane always dreamed of becoming a nurse. Despite being out of education for over 20 years, Jane overcame academic and personal challenges.

With 24 months of time allocated to completing her portfolio, Jane finished this within an impressive 13 months. She passed her End Points Assessment (EPA) with a distinction grade and is now on the path to becoming a Nursing Associate. Jane’s story is a powerful example of perseverance, showing how apprenticeships open doors at any stage of life. 

Bradford District Credit Union – SME Employer of the Year 

Bradford District Credit Union (BDCU) stands out for its strong commitment to apprenticeships. As a valued partner of Bradford College, BDCU employs apprentices across departments, with apprentices now forming 40% of their workforce. Guided by EDI Community Development Lead Ian Brewer, they maintain a clear recruitment and mentoring strategy, ensuring apprentices gain the practical skills needed to succeed.

Their focus on developing talent has led to high retention and even promotions, making BDCU a shining example of how apprenticeships can drive business success and benefit the local community.

P Waddington & Co LLP – SME Employer of the Year 

Based in Bradford, P Waddington & Co LLP has been a leader in processing animal by-products since 1882. As part of the JG Pears Group and in close partnership with Bradford College, they are committed to nurturing new engineering talent. The company offers flexible training, clear work specifications, and dedicated off-the-job hours, ensuring apprentices gain the practical and theoretical skills needed for real progress.

Their approach is evident in success stories like that of apprentice Kieran Mckeown, who has advanced from a Level 2 to a Level 3 Engineering Apprenticeship. This supportive, open culture makes P Waddington a true champion of apprenticeship.

Layla Sunter – Professional Services Apprentice of the Year

Over the past 18 months, Layla Sunter has turned uncertainty into a bright future. With support from Bradford College, she started a Level 2 Customer Service apprenticeship at Eccleshill Dental Practice. Through determination and resilience, Layla tackled every challenge and grew into a confident, capable professional.

Her positive energy and commitment are evident every day—a quality that Eccleshill Dental Practice Manager Emma Denton praises, noting that Layla’s dedication truly makes a difference.

Sheldon Fieldhouse – Construction Apprentice of the Year 

Sheldon Fieldhouse began his journey at Bradford College in 2019 with a Level 2 Electrical Installation qualification (Distinction) before progressing to Level 3 Electrical Engineering Advanced Technician training, again achieving a Distinction.

He then joined CBRE GWS Ltd for his Level 3 Electrical Installation apprenticeship, where his technical skills, positive attitude, and dedication quickly set him apart. Now in his fourth year, Sheldon has not only excelled in his studies but has led sustainability projects—like upgrading campus LED lighting—that have significantly reduced energy costs. His commitment, leadership in mentoring peers, and recognition with a CBRE Exceptional Award in 2024 make him an inspiring candidate. 

Ellie Brown – Intermediate Apprentice of the Year

Ellie began her apprenticeship immediately after school, quickly discovering her passion for Early Years. When her first placement ended unexpectedly, she proactively secured a new opportunity with the support of Bradford College and found a role at Kids Planet.

Throughout her apprenticeship, Ellie has shown remarkable determination—consistently meeting deadlines, actively engaging in her work, and demonstrating a deep understanding of every task. Although she sometimes faces challenges with processing and reading speed, she has developed effective strategies to overcome them, always delivering quality work on time. Her care, compassion, and commitment shine through in all she does, making her a true asset to her employer and a standout example of apprenticeship success. 

Sam Foulds – Engineering / Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year

Sam is a Level 3 Engineering Technician Apprentice at Bradford College and works as an Advanced CNC Machinist at Klinger UK, a world leader in sealing products for the oil and gas, petrochemical, aerospace, defence, utilities, pharmaceuticals, and chemical industries.

Starting as a Level 2 apprentice with no prior engineering experience, he earned a Distinction before quickly excelling in his current role. His dedication is evident in his 98% attendance and rapid mastery of technical skills. Sam recently helped create the largest-ever Sentry gasket for subsea use – a project that highlights both his expertise and commitment.

If you’re inspired by these stories and want to chart your own path, check out our apprenticeship programmes at bradfordcollege.ac.uk/apprenticeships or join us at our next Open Evening on Tuesday 24 June 2025 to meet our apprenticeship team, chat with current apprentices and tour our facilities.