The winners were crowned at this year's Carlisle College Apprenticeship Awards.

A gala event held at Carlisle College was a platform to acknowledge and celebrate apprentices, staff and employers.

Nominations were made by college staff, employers, and apprentices before they were shortlisted by the senior leadership team.

Among the winners was Lisa Ellis, motor vehicle technician at Halfords, who was named Apprentice of the Year by principal of Carlisle College, Sarah McGrath.

Ms Ellis' dedication, aspirations and inspirational journey tipped the scales in her favour.

On accepting the award, Lisa Ellis said: "Thanks to Carlisle College for the opportunity and to Andy Wood for nominating me.

"I felt very honoured to be nominated for this award and never imagined I would go on to win not only one but two awards, I was overwhelmed!"

In addition to the main sponsor Persimmon Homes, category supporters including CITB, Eddie Wannop Ltd, Inspira, DMB Building Ltd, Cavaghan & Gray, Mindful Education, WCF, The Cumberland, Autoexel and H&H Insurance Brokers all attended the ceremony.

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Reflecting on the event, Vicky Stafford, business engagement manager at Carlisle College said, "We were delighted to be able to celebrate the achievements of our Apprenticeship community at Carlisle College for the second year running.

"It's thanks to our valued sponsors and partners that we are able to come together for such a special evening.

"We were proud to welcome a room full of incredibly worthy finalists and share the inspiring stories of our winners."

Throughout National Apprenticeship Week, Carlisle College ran information sessions within the college and community for parents and young apprentices to highlight the advantages of apprenticeships and provide guidance on prospective career paths.

News and Star: A gala event held at Carlisle College was a platform to acknowledge and celebrate apprentices,

See the full list of winners at the Carlisle College Apprenticeship Awards 2024 below:

  • Leon Hodgson (Central Motors) - Best Newcomer
  • Joshua Edgar (Carlisle Key) - Most Improved
  • Sian Sidgwick (Cumberland Council) - Employer Choice
  • Reeve Telford (Phillip Taylor) - Construction Apprentice of the Year
  • Lisa Ellis (Halfords) - Technical Services Apprentice of the Year Lewis Wilkinson (Energus) - Professional Services Apprentice of the Year
  • Andy Wood (Carlisle College) - “Apprentice Choice” Staff Recognition Award
  • Lamonds Painting & Decorating - Small Employer of the Year
  • Border City Autos Limited - Medium Size Business of the Year
  • Crown Bevcan - Large Business of the Year
  • Lisa Ellis (Halfords) - Apprentice of the Year