Following a record-breaking number of entries, Warrington & Vale Royal College has been shortlisted in the Apprenticeship Award category for its Advanced Automation Build Programme. This employer-designed, industry-aligned initiative provides engineering apprentices with exceptional hands-on experience that goes far beyond the standard requirements of an apprenticeship.
Developed in partnership with Compass Minerals and Bilfinger, the programme immerses apprentices in the full lifecycle of an industrial automation project. From panel design and wiring to PLC programming, system integration, and live commissioning on conveyor‑based rigs, apprentices gain unrivalled exposure to real‑world engineering environments. This innovative approach significantly exceeds apprenticeship knowledge, skills, and behaviours, accelerating workplace readiness and contributing to outstanding achievement and progression outcomes.
The programme’s impact is clear: it has achieved an impressive 96% employer satisfaction rate and a positive progression rate of 96% for apprentices, demonstrating its success in preparing a future-ready workforce equipped to support the region’s engineering sector.
Andrew Atkin, Vice Principal: Curriculum & Quality at Warrington & Vale Royal College, said: “We are thrilled to have been shortlisted for the Apprenticeship Award in this year’s Educate North Awards. This recognition reflects our dedication to transforming technical education and working collaboratively with employers to close crucial skills gaps. The Advanced Automation Build Programme is a fantastic example of what this approach can accomplish.”
Winners of the Educate North Awards 2026 will be announced on Thursday 7th May at The Point, Emirates Old Trafford. As the college looks ahead to the ceremony, it remains committed to delivering high-quality apprenticeships that empower people of all ages to build successful careers.
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