15 photos capture South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Award 2026 winners at gala ceremony in Sheffield

Fourteen outstanding apprentices, and the employers and training providers who support them, were honoured at a gala awards night in Sheffield.

The South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards were held at Sheffield United Football Club on a night that rewarded rising stars.

Guests were greeted by reception sponsors Clear Quality and enjoyed drinks sponsored by SUFC.

Fourteen award winners were announced following a three-course meal.

Claire Lewis, Editor of The Star, welcomed guests and said: “This annual event, hosted by the Star in partnership with the Doncaster Free Press and Rotherham Advertiser, recognises the vital role apprenticeships play in bridging the gap between education and the world of work.

“Tonight we celebrate something powerful: potential turned into progress.

“Behind every successful apprentice is an employer willing to invest in potential and a training provider dedicated to guiding, teaching and inspiring the next generation.

“Everyone in this room is a shining example of how you contribute to this and you should be rightly proud of your accomplishments.”

A raffle raised £2,000 for Charity Partner Roundabout, South Yorkshire’s youth homelessness charity, supporting young people aged 13–25.

The event host was Rich Williams, an award-winning radio presenter and live event host, currently part of the Breakfast Show team on the Absolute Radio network.

Check out the winners in our photo gallery.

The Star thanks the judges who diligently reviewed every entry to determine this year’s winners.

They are:

• DR Graham Honeyman CBE, Managing Director - Sarach Steel Technologies Ltd
• Natalie Evans, Apprenticeship Lead - Asda
• Bex Darch, Learning Specialist - Arla Foods
• Ava Jones, Head of Marketing - AESSEAL
• James Beighton, Development Lead - Skills Street
• Lisa Pogson MSc, M.Inst.R, MWES, Managing Director - Airmaster

Lisa Pogson, Managing Director, Airmaster, said: “The award nominations showcased incredible pride, passion and dedication from apprentices and their supporters, highlighting the inspiring impact apprenticeships continue to have on individuals, businesses and future talent.”

Ava Jones, Head of Marketing and Executive Assistant, AESSEAL plc, said: “The exceptionally high standard of award nominations demonstrated the vital role apprenticeships play in developing talent, strengthening businesses and creating future career opportunities across the region.”

Dr Graham A. Honeyman CBE, Sarach Steel Technologies, said: “Judging the award nominations was a rewarding experience, with submissions reflecting the creativity, hard work and commitment of apprentices, mentors and organisations alike.”

ASDA Apprenticeships Lead, Natalie Evans, said: “The award nominations highlighted the outstanding commitment, resilience and talent of apprentices, alongside the transformational impact apprenticeships have on businesses, communities and future careers.”

To read more about the event visit https://www.syapprenticeshipawards.co.uk/

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