Inspiring Stories Shine at Bradford College's National Apprenticeship Week Awards
In a celebration of resilience and achievement, Bradford College recently hosted its annual Star Awards, honoring exceptional apprentices who have excelled in their training amid challenging circumstances. Held at Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford, the event was part of the National Apprenticeship Week 2026 activities, showcasing the strength and potential of vocational education.
Acknowledging Excellence and Resilience
The awards ceremony was a heartfelt acknowledgment of apprentices’ hard work, personal growth, and dedication to their studies and work. The evening featured motivational stories from various fields, illustrating the remarkable outcomes that can stem from apprenticeship programs. Among the many honorees, Tegan Durkin of The Poplars Dental Practice received the prestigious ‘CBRE Apprentice of the Year’ award. Tegan's journey is particularly inspiring; despite receiving a serious health diagnosis early in her apprenticeship, she refused to let it deter her progress, demonstrating unwavering determination and a positive attitude throughout her studies.
Celebrating Community and Support
In her acceptance speech, Tegan expressed her astonishment at winning the award and highlighted the invaluable hands-on experience provided through apprenticeships. "You get real hands‑on experience while you study, and the support from the tutors and employers is just great!” she remarked, underscoring the community's vital role in supporting apprentices.
Recognizing Diverse Talents
Other notable winners included Nida Hayat of St Philip’s CofE Primary School, honored as ‘Adult Apprentice of the Year’ for her outstanding work despite personal challenges. The event also featured the ‘Breaking Barriers’ award presented to Joseph Worth for his dedication and tenacity in fulfilling college business needs.
Empowering Future Generations
Alina Khan, Vice Principal of EDI & Student Experience, inspired attendees by affirming their potential, stating, “You represent the very best of what apprenticeships offer: talent developed through opportunity, skill built through hard work, and growth achieved through lived experience.” Chris Leahy from CBRE concluded the evening with an empowering message about the future workforce, encouraging apprentices to embrace their roles and enjoy the journey.
With a multitude of awards celebrating various fields, this event not only highlighted individual achievements but also emphasized the collaborative spirit that defines the apprenticeship program at Bradford College. Such recognition fosters a stronger community committed to nurturing the skills needed for tomorrow’s workforce.
As the apprenticeship landscape continues to evolve, events like these serve as a reminder of the importance of vocational training and its profound impact on individuals and the wider community.
