Isle Of Wight College Celebrates Apprentices And Employers At Royal Yacht Squadron Awards Night

Isle of Wight College has honoured the Island’s top apprentices and employers at its annual Apprenticeship Awards Ceremony.

The event took place on Thursday 12 February at the prestigious Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes, during National Apprenticeship Week.

It brought together apprentices, business leaders, industry partners and invited guests to celebrate excellence in skills, training and workforce development across the Island.

The evening opened with a welcome from Chair of Governors Sara Weech, followed by an address from Principal and Chief Executive Ros Parker.

Guests also heard from Sarah Teague, Strategic Manager for People and Organisational Development at Isle of Wight Council.

Certificates were presented to apprentices who completed their programmes between March 2025 and January 2026, recognising achievements across a wide range of sectors.

Special awards highlighted exceptional progress, resilience and contribution in the workplace, alongside employer categories celebrating businesses that go above and beyond to support apprentices.

Major Winners

Employer of the Year 2026: Isle of Wight Council

Apprentice of the Year 2026 (sponsored by Wates Construction): Luca Ferarri, Healthcare Engineering Specialist Technician

Ros Parker praised nominees and winners, saying apprenticeships provide life-changing pathways into meaningful careers while employers continue to create vital opportunities for people across the Island.

The College also thanked the Royal Yacht Squadron for hosting the ceremony and congratulated all apprentices, nominees and winners for their contribution to strengthening the Island’s workforce.