Apprentices receive hand-delivered awards from East Riding College

AWARDS: Elisha Ellerington, Outstanding Contribution Winner, with Richard Sellick, Director of Business Development East Riding College, and Natalie Smith, Employer Account Manager at the college

East Riding College’s annual Apprenticeships Awards have been personally delivered to the winners due to the ongoing impact of Covid-19.

The novel approach was taken as winners were not able to attend the traditional ceremony usually held at Beverley Racecourse and attended by apprentices and their employers and assessors, as well as family and friends. 

Richard Sellick, Director of Business Development at the college, said: “We thought it was still very important, following the unusual year that they have had, that apprentices were recognised for their achievements, dedication and hard work, even if we could not have a formal ceremony. 

“Our apprentices have been fantastic this year, especially when you consider the disruption caused by the pandemic over the last 18 months.

“We had so many nominations and it was difficult to choose the winners, as all our nominated apprentices were making a real difference to their employers’ businesses at such a difficult time. 

“Our winners represent a wider group of outstanding young people and adults who are working hard for their employers through tough times. 

“Everyone at the college wishes them and their employers every success in the future.”

Apprentices were nominated by their employers from across the region, and across all apprenticeship levels. 

Numerous apprentices won Apprentice of the Year in their respective industries, and two apprentices won Outstanding Contribution Awards.

Megan Johnson, 23, from Bridlington, was nominated by her employer Cranswick for an Outstanding Contribution Award in the Large Employer category.

She won for the immediate impact she had made in her Business Administrator Apprentice role. 

WINNER: Megan Johnson with her trophy

Megan’s employer applauded her highly professional and enthusiastic approach to her work. 

Jackie Riggall, Cold Store Manager at the Hull-based national food producer, said: “After a few short months Megan was competent to balance stocks weekly and assist in stock control. 

“Megan worked flexibly to cover for unavoidable staff absence and remained calm and professional.

“Her approach is commendable. She is confident and asks questions so that she has a full understanding of site processes.

“We’re delighted that she won the Outstanding Contribution Award and we’re very proud – she really deserves it.”

Elisha Ellerington, 18, from Hull, received an Outstanding Contribution Award in the Small Employer category after being nominated by her employer KarAesthetics Limited. 

She won for her teamwork, positive attitude and support for her colleagues and the wider business, including thinking of revenue ideas to keep it going during the pandemic.

Kara Huggins, Director at KarAesthetics, said: “She goes above and beyond every working hour, and more. 

“From day one she has been a breath of fresh air. The positive attitude she adopts in everything she does is contagious – she is a pleasure to work with. 

“Her ability to learn new skills quickly is inspiring and it makes us proud every day to see her progress in her career and overcome the challenges faced due to Covid. 

“We can’t remember what working life was like without Elisha – how did we cope? She is outstanding!”