A Night Of Celebration – Preston College’s Exceptional Apprentice & Employer Awards 2026
Last week, we had the pleasure of hosting the seventh annual Exceptional Apprentice & Employer awards, bringing together outstanding apprentices, dedicated employers, and proud supporters for an evening celebrating hard work, skill, and commitment across a range of industries.
From more than 100 nominations, 24 exceptional finalists were selected across seven award categories. Joined by their families, friends and the tutors who support their journeys, they enjoyed an evening filled with celebration, recognition and genuine pride in their achievements.
Category Winners included:
Engineering: Unipart Dorman, Bonney Greenhalgh, Millennium Engineering and Adam Hardingham
Automotive Technologies: North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust, Brake Fit and Max El Gardi
Construction: Pear Roofing North West Ltd, LRC Projects, Persimmon Homes and Sam Durham
Hair & Beauty: Be Beautiful, House of Soul and Summer Kirkby
Business & Management: Briarwood Medical Centre, Loops Direct and Jessica Roocroft
Health & Science: Cedars Dental Practice, Wrightington Wigan and Leigh Trust, Holywell Bridgeway and Elizabeth Rimmer
Education & Childcare: Pipers Day Nursery
Beyond Limits Award: Anya Bamber
Overall Apprentice of the Year was awarded to Summer Kirkby – a remarkable achievement that truly reflects her hard work and dedication.
Simon Nixon, Principle and Chief Executive said:
“These awards carry real significance for our College, reflecting a shared commitment to raising aspirations and celebrating achievement across our partners, employers and apprentices. They highlight not only accomplishments of our apprentices across multiple industries, but also the vital role employers play in creating transformative learning environments and opening doors through apprenticeships and T Level opportunities.”
The countdown to next year’s awards has already begun, with excitement building for another opportunity to celebrate excellence across our community. Congratulations and thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the event so special
