2026 | Case Studies
Explore our showcase of winner podcasts and written case studies and highly commended written entries, celebrating the creativity, innovation, and impact of outstanding work across the industry.
Intermediate Apprentice of the Year
Sponsored by:
Highly Commended
Courtney Siddall, Teddies House Children’s Nursery | Bolton College
Advanced Apprentice of the Year
Sponsored by:
Winner
Zafeerah Bagas, Alliance Learning
Highly Commended
Zara Flannigan, Channings Childcare | Rochdale Training
Higher Apprentice of the Year
Sponsored by:
Winner
Ryan Wraxall, TfGM | Alliance Learning
Highly Commended
Antoinette James Cachia, Highfield Manor | Rochdale Training
Degree Apprentice of the Year
Sponsored by:
Winner
Niamh Nugent, NG Bailey Ltd | University of Salford
Highly Commended
Charlie Mackie, Keoghs | Damar Training
16-19 Learner of the Year
Sponsored by:
Winner
Lily Edgar Booth, Oldham College
Highly Commended
Hajira Qaiser, Trafford & Stockport College Group
Adult Learner of the Year
Sponsored by:
Winner
Kate Corry, Bright Direction Training
Highly Commended
Aidan Wallwork, Wigan & Leigh College
View the full case study here: Michelle Crowther
Shining Star of the Year
Sponsored by:
Winner
Ella Jones, University of Salford
Highly Commended
Ella Williams, King’s Trust
Unsung Hero of the Year
Sponsored by:
Winner
Dave Bradbury, Elevated Knowledge
Team of the Year
Sponsored by:
Winner
DISC, The DISC Supported Internship Team
Highly Commended
Pure Innovations
SME of the Year
Sponsored by:
Large Employer of the Year
Sponsored by:
Winner
Essity
Highly Commended
Manchester Airports Group
Community Initiative of the Year
Sponsored by:
Winner
The Christie Charity Education & Employment Programme
Partnership Project of the Year
Sponsored by:
Winner
NHS Greater Manchester, Workforce Development Team
Highly Commended
Outstanding Contribution to Further Education and Skills 2026
Sponsored by:
Winner
Anna Dawe, Principle/CEO of Wigan & Leigh College
Highly Commended