The Apprentice awards were made by Rt. Hon. Seema Malhotra MP and Marta Gajewska, Principal of West Thames College

Apprentice Awards

Matthew Crane – Whistl Apprentice Bolton - HGV Apprentice of the year nomination: Outstanding academic achievement

Role model with exceptional dedication
Outstanding academic achievement on HGV apprenticeship
Pro-Active attitude with dedication and professionalism
promising future with technical skills and leadership qualities built from apprenticehip

Nomination from John Metcalfe – Transport Manager, ‘I would like to recommend Matthew Crane for Apprentice of the Year. Throughout his HGV driver apprenticeship, Matthew has demonstrated exceptional dedication, professionalism, and a proactive attitude that sets him apart as a true role model within our organization.

Outstanding Academic Achievement - Matthew successfully completed his end-of-year assessments with distinctions in every single test, showcasing his commitment to excellence and his ability to master complex skills efficiently. His academic success reflects his strong work ethic and his determination to excel in all aspects of his training.

Supportive and Knowledgeable Peer - Beyond his academic accomplishments, Matthew is highly regarded among his peers for his willingness to assist others. He consistently goes above and beyond to offer help and advice, establishing himself as the go-to person for colleagues seeking guidance. His approachable nature, combined with his extensive knowledge, fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment. His patience and understanding of his colleagues' challenges further exemplifies his leadership qualities.
Adaptability and Professionalism in the Field - Since transitioning to HGV driving, Matthew has integrated seamlessly into his new role. He maintains a positive attitude, never complains about his assignments, and demonstrates a high level of professionalism. His exemplary driving record, characterized by the absence of infringements and consistently high rankings in safety and performance, underscores his dedication to responsible and skilled driving.

Leadership and Initiative - Matthew's capabilities extend beyond his immediate role. Earlier this year, he was selected for a secondment to a Transport Planning position to cover an illness within the team. His recommendation for this role was based on his proactive 'can-do' attitude and his distinguished performance during his apprenticeship. Meeting Matthew reveals a person who is highly intelligent, quick to adapt, and eager to contribute beyond expectations.

Personal Attributes and Future Potential - While Matthew has a passion for driving, he has expressed a preference to continue in operational roles rather than transitioning into office-based positions permanently. His enthusiasm for his work, combined with his proven capabilities, indicates a promising future within the organization. His dedication, combined with his technical skills and leadership qualities, makes him a deserving recipient of the Apprentice of the Year award.

Army RLC Private Freeston-Shaw

Express Delivery Operative L2 Apprentice
Class 2 P&C Operator, 80 Sqn, 29 Regt RLC
Completed the DFE Apprenticeship, Express delivery operative at Level 2.

A true asset to the squadron

He has been employed as a Class 2 Postal & Courier (P&C) Operator within 80 Squadron, a deployable sub-unit of 29 Regiment RLC.

He has consistently demonstrated exceptional performance across a range of environments, including deployment on Exercise CETUS in Norway and Operation SCORPIUS.

A true asset to the Squadron, Pte Freeston-Shaw has shown unwavering commitment by regularly volunteering for Squadron taskings and Regimental duties. Notably, during Exercise CETUS, he assumed responsibility as I/C of the BFPO in the absence of the SNCO—a significant leadership role for a Class 2 soldier—which he executed to an exemplary standard, earning commendation from the Chain of Command. He also successfully completed the Cold Weather Survival Course and the Snow & Ice Driving Course, enhancing his operational adaptability.

Pte Freeston-Shaw consistently displays confidence and initiative, as evidenced during the Squadron P&C Exercise where he managed the counter service effectively. He is already demonstrating leadership traits expected of a JNCO, further supported by his completion of Naval Coaching Level 1 & 2 courses. His willingness to undertake less desirable tasks, such as working the Regimental bar on weekends and covering guard duties over Christmas prior to deployment, reflects his selfless attitude and dedication.

His commitment to personal development is evident in his physical fitness and his role in motivating peers during PT and exercises. This drive for self-improvement sets a strong example within the Squadron.

Pte Freeston-Shaw has delivered an outstanding performance throughout the reporting period. His professionalism, initiative, and leadership potential mark him as a soldier operating at the highest level for his rank

Amber Pickard – Whsitl Apprentice in Express sortation L2 - Bedford Depot – Learning progression excellence - Sortation to Asset Controller

First apprentice on sortation, trailblazer among peers for on job learning
Adapting learning to achieve progression and promotion
A drive to succeed and an inspiring example
What can be achieved through learning commitment and a proactive attitude

Her success in being the first Whistl team member to pass this apprenticeship, made her a trailblazer among her peers.

Starting her career as a Warehouse Operative, Amber's dedication and performance led to her earning her apprenticeship qualification. Her commitment to excellence was further recognized when she was promoted in June of this year to the role of Asset Controller. This progression highlights her ability to adapt, learn, and excel in increasingly responsible positions. She has demonstrated a real drive to succeed and operates at a quality standard that is always at the top of the performance metrics.

Amber’s pursuit of continuous development and her focus on enhancing her skills and responsibilities underscore her professional maturity. Her approach to work is characterized by a positive attitude, resilience, and a problem-solving mindset, making her a role model within her team. She is a true example of what can be achieved with hard work, dedication and application.

Amber’s journey serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved through commitment and a proactive attitude. Her story encourages others to pursue excellence and embrace opportunities for growth, making her a deserving candidate for this recognition.