Aleksandra is HTAE Apprentice of the Year

Hull Training and Adult Education (HTAE) hosted its Learner Awards in the Banqueting Suite of Hull's Guildhall on Friday 15 November.

The annual awards recognise the contributions and efforts of learners and businesses.

A total of 18 awards were handed out on the evening, with the main award, HTAE Apprentice of the Year, going to Aleksandra Wandoch.

Judges noted Aleksandra's leadership abilities, her capacity to excel in her work and her commitment to high standards.

Since arriving from Poland aged 13 unable to speak English, Aleksandra has overcome numerous challenges, including the language, her confidence in mathematics and the demands of the Engineering Fitter Standard.

Her achievements extend beyond academic and professional success, becoming a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in the traditionally male-dominated engineering industry. Her success has inspired many young women to consider careers in engineering.

Chris Smith, Colchester Machine Tool Specialist, who announced the winner, described Aleksandra as a "natural-born leader" whose potential was clear from the outset.

Multiple award winner Aleksandra Wandoch, including HTAE Apprentice of the Year. Photo by Katie Pugh.

Cllr Linda Tock, portfolio holder for Hull Training at Hull City Council, said: "It's lovely to see the whole of HTAE come together for the annual learner awards.

"It is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the efforts of our learners and also show our appreciation to the businesses who partner with us.

"I would like to congratulate all award winners, particularly Aleksandra as the HTAE Apprentice of the Year."

2024 roll of honour:

Business and Management: Intermediate Apprentice of the Year - Verity Mansfield; Advanced Apprentice of the Year - Conor Hewetson; Hull CC Apprentice of the Year - Matthew Stansfield.

Engineering Centre: Advanced Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by Ideal Heating) - Aleksandra Wandoch; Signmaking Appreciate of the Year (sponsored by Sapphire Signmakers) - Lloyd Edwards; Intermediate Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by MACH Machine Tools Ltd) - James Seymour.

Construction Centre: Intermediate Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by Compendium Living) - Jazzmin Smith; Achievement Award (sponsored by JC Services & Sons Ltd) - Mackenzie Richardson and Ryan Wilson; Advanced Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by Ideal Heating) - Jack Jefferson.

Lauren and Luke Nicholson of HTAE Employer of the Year winners, Matt Vinyl Graphics, with Mike Johnson of GEO Houlton & Sons, who presented the award. Photo by Katie Pugh.

Functional Skills Outstanding Achievement of the Year - Elaine Greenley

Skills Bootcamp Achievement of the Year - Lewis Hyde

ESOL Outstanding Achievement of the Year - Jacqueline Hernandez

Vocational Outstanding Achievement of the Year - Christopher Duggleby

Community Learning Outstanding Achievement of the Year - Molly Robinson

HTAE: Achievement of the Year - Overcoming Barriers (sponsored by JC Services & Sons Ltd - Tyreece Moss, Employer of the Year - Matt Vinyl Graphics, Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by Colchester Machine Tools Solutions) - Aleksandra Wandoch, Partner of the Year - Ideal Heating.

Sponsors for the evening were: Geo Houlton & Sons, Matt Vinyl Graphics, Ideal Heating, MACH Machine Tools, JC Services & Son LTD, Sapphire Signs, Compendium Living, Colchester Machine Tool Solutions and KWL.