On Wednesday 20 May 2026, UCS College Group held their very first Industry Skills Awards ceremony at The McMillan Theatre, with their host, Lucy Hawkins, Group Director of Future Skills and Growth.

The event brought together their employer partners, T Level students, apprentices, supported employment students and staff for an evening of celebration.

The Industry Skills Awards are a powerful reminder of the difference we’re making across Somerset and beyond. Seeing employers invest time, expertise and opportunities in our students reinforces how partnerships can transform individual lives, boosting confidence and opening a wide range of career pathways that create lasting social and economic impact. It was wonderful to celebrate our students’ successes alongside employer partners and colleagues. I’m grateful to our partners and staff whose support is truly transforming lives across our communities.

Andy Berry CBE, CEO of UCS College Group

The event was kindly sponsored by Nuclear Restoration Services, FDQ, Walker Family Law, Sedgemoor Chamber of Commerce, Conquest Centre, Mike Morgan Electrical Services, Somerset Chamber of Commerce, Taunton Round Table and Learning Curve Group.

Judges had the unenviable task of whittling down the record number of nominations to just 12 award winners.

Student Category Winners were:

Emerging Skills Learner of the Year was awarded to Harry Elliot, for his work as an Autocare Technician at Halfords. Harry has developed strong technical skills in vehicle servicing and maintenance and has consistently exceeded expectations while contributing positively to workshop performance, customer service and team morale.

Skilled Pathways Learner of the Year was awarded to Kathryn Bradshaw, for her exceptional contributions at the UK Hydrographic Office. Kat has transformed executive governance through innovation, independently designing an automated leadership action tracking system that improved accountability and efficiency across the organisation.

• Highly Commended was awarded to Peter Robb.

Professional Skills Learner of the Year was awarded to Courtney Robertson, for her exceptional leadership and professionalism within the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust. Courtney has consistently gone above and beyond the expectations of her role, becoming a vital source of stability.

• Highly Commended was awarded to Shaun Crome.

Supported Progression Learner of the Year was awarded to Harrison Small, for his fantastic contributions within Bridgwater Hospital’s portering team. Harrison consistently goes beyond expectations, improving efficiency through his proactive approach and commitment to patient care.

• Highly Commended was awarded to Casey Joannou.

Technical Pathways Learner of the Year was awarded to Jay Chapman, for consistently exceeding expectations through his willingness to take on responsibility, leading to him becoming a highly valued member of the team. Jay’s passion for technology, strong communication skills and outstanding contribution have earned him a degree apprenticeship.

Employer Category winners were:

Industry Skills Small Employer of the Year was awarded to Fortis Clothing Ltd, for their commitment to British craftsmanship, sustainability and the development of future talent within the manufacturing industry. Fortis provides hands-on training and genuine career pathways for aspiring garment makers.

Industry Skills Medium Employer of the Year was awarded to Devonshire Motors Accident Repair Centre, for their culture of mentorship, encouragement and continuous learning, ensuring apprentices are treated as valued members of the team and supported to grow in confidence, technical ability and professionalism.

Industry Skills Large Employer of the Year was awarded to Halfords, for their outstanding commitment to developing the future automotive workforce through their high-quality apprenticeships. Halfords provide exceptional mentoring, modern technical training and clear progression pathways into skilled and leadership roles.

• Highly Commended was awarded to Somerset Council.

Industry Experience Partner of the Year was awarded to On Your Bike, for their approach which empowers students to contribute creatively and take real ownership of projects, including managing social media content with measurable community impact.

Inclusive Employment Champion of the Year was awarded to Somerset Council, for their exceptional commitment to creating inclusive employment opportunities for young people across the county. Through their expansion of Supported Internships, work experience and industry placements, they have helped transform pathways into employment for learners with additional needs.

• Highly Commended was awarded to Conquest Centre.

Technical Pathways Partner of the Year was awarded to Bristol Website Design for their meaningful placement opportunities that provide students with real industry experience, technical development and increased confidence. Since 2023, several learners have progressed into paid employment and further study opportunities within the business, reflecting the lasting impact of Paul’s mentorship and support.

• Highly Commended was awarded to Brunel Accountancy and St Margaret’s Hospice.

The UCS College Group Strategic Skills Partner of the Year was awarded to Müller, for their active support for learners through engineering, operations and business apprenticeships while working closely with UCS College Group. Müller’s involvement has helped raise aspirations and break down barriers for young people considering careers in manufacturing and engineering.

UCS College Group took the opportunity to present a special recognition award to a loyal and valued partner, who consistently demonstrates what genuine commitment to apprenticeships and skills development really looks like. This went to Jen Reid, from Mulberry.

This year also saw the welcomed return of the James Satchell Memorial Award, sponsored by the Taunton Round Table. This was awarded to Sophia Davies for her outstanding contributions to apprenticeships.

We wish to congratulate all the finalists and winners on their successes!