Leading the charge to close the manufacturing skills gap, Whitecroft secures two ‘Highly Commended’ titles at a prestigious London ceremony.

We have been recognised as one of the UK’s premier destinations for early-career talent, securing two "Highly Commended" accolades at the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2025.

Following a victory at the Northwest Regional Awards earlier this year, Whitecroft was selected from over 1,100 entrants to represent the region on the national stage at London’s Royal Lancaster Hotel. The event celebrates organisations driving meaningful change in education, skills, and workforce development.

Powered by Our People.

However, none of this would be possible without the dedication, hard work, and ambition of our apprentices, managers and the teams who support them. Their commitment to learning, developing new skills, and driving improvement across the business is at the heart of this achievement. This recognition belongs just as much to them as it does to Whitecroft, and we are proud to celebrate their contribution on a national platform.

Recognition on a National Stage.

At the event, we achieved a ‘Highly Commended’ award for the QC Large Apprenticeship Employer of the Year. This reflected our strong culture of mentorship and collaboration across the business as well as our dedication to support apprenticeships and graduates through outreach and long-term development.

Whitecroft’s strategy extends beyond on-the-job learning. Through initiatives such as work experience programmes, school safaris, and expanded T-Level partnerships with Tameside College, Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), and Manchester Metropolitan University, we continue to create clear routes into skilled employment and raise awareness of opportunities within UK manufacturing.

Celebrating individual Success.
We celebrated Marcelina Fila, who was awarded Highly Commended for the national British Army Higher Apprentice of the Year. Marcelina plays a key role in professional development across her teams, supports colleagues through degree apprenticeships, and drives strategic initiatives that shape Whitecroft’s future direction.

Leading the Way in Apprenticeship Excellence.
Recognition at both regional and national level reinforces our role as an industry leader in apprenticeships and early-career development. This ignites our commitment to investing in talent, strengthening opportunity, and helping build a highly skilled manufacturing workforce, supporting jobs across the UK .

“Apprenticeships are fundamental to how we build long-term careers and develop the future leaders of Whitecroft. By working closely with local schools and colleges and investing in people at every stage of their career, we’re creating meaningful opportunities, strengthening our local community, and building a highly skilled workforce for the future." Says Julia King, Director of People and Culture.

Apprenticeships are for everyone, whatever stage of your career. If you are interested in learning more or want to do an apprenticeship, please get in touch with the Ignite team: ignite@whitecroftlight.com