To mark National Apprenticeship Week 2025, the hard work and achievements of apprentices have been celebrated at a special awards ceremony hosted by Ealing Council.
The annual Apprenticeship Graduation and Awards, which took place on Friday 14 February, recognised the apprentices who have made a real difference to the council’s work and the lives of local people.
The event also recognised the equally important efforts of supervisors, who have supported the apprentices throughout their employment journeys.
The event, held at Perceval House, was attended by leader of the council, Peter Mason, and the council’s cabinet member for decent living incomes Councillor Kamaljit Nagpal. Training providers, council staff, and the apprentices family members were also present.
This year’s winners
During the event, awards were given for Apprentice of the Year and Supervisor of the Year.
The nominees in the Apprentice of the Year category were:
- Rachel Daniels, events and administration apprentice
- Katrina Deryawish, HR recruitment apprentice
- Christian Tobon, safer communities apprentice
Katrina took home the award, which reflected her resilience, determination, and commitment to the council’s values and priorities.
The judges noted: “Katrina’s willingness to take on new challenges with a positive attitude and team-orientated approach have made her a valuable asset to the team, which is reflected in her consistent growth and dedication to her apprenticeship role.”
There were 3 nominees in the Supervisor of the Year category:
- Joseph Appiah-Danquah, UKSPF programme manager
- Julie Bukhari, housing solutions manager
- Daniel Malone-O’Halloran, safer communities team manager
The winner in this category was Daniel, with the judging panel praising his attitude towards supporting his apprentice.
The judges noted: “Daniel has continuously encouraged his apprentice to enhance their skills. His dedication to fostering professional development, along with offering bespoke training and guidance, has significantly impacted his apprentice’s journey.”
Those who completed their apprenticeships ‘graduated’ at the ceremony, and each received a certificate to mark their achievements.
‘A big part of our ambition’
Ealing Council has a longstanding commitment to employing apprentices. Apprenticeships are real paid jobs which result in a nationally recognised qualification.
Apprenticeships also benefit businesses by providing a practical way to grow talent and develop a skilled and motivated workforce. And, the council provides support to businesses to develop their own programmes.
Councillor Mason said: “Apprenticeships are a big part of our ambition to create more good jobs in the borough. They make sense for all involved. Local employers who take on apprentices can expect to receive full support from us around the process of hiring, employing, and training. Apprentices, in turn, get unrivalled, on-the-job training, and a route into a career with decent pay.”
Councillor Nagpal added: “It was wonderful to see our apprentices and supervisors being celebrated for their achievements this past year. Participants should be proud of their experiences, learning and studying whilst gaining vital workplace skills at the same time. Well done to everyone for their hard work and commitment. I look forward to seeing what they go on to do next.”
You’re hired!
An apprenticeship is a great way to gain practical work experience whilst also achieving valuable professional skills. Apprenticeships give people an entry way into a career, and are great for those who prefer a ‘hands on’ experience of learning.
Visit the council’s website to find out more or email apprenticeships@ealing.gov.uk to speak to the team.
If you need help with finding the next step in your career, visit the West London Skills and Work Finder website for local training courses, careers events, and other available support to get into work.
