Askham Bryan College and University Centre are proud to announce eleven finalists at the North Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards 2026 

Askham Bryan College and University Centre are proud to announce that they have eleven finalists, along with their own apprenticeship team, shortlisted at the North Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards 2026. The awards, set to be held at Harrogate on Thursday 11 June 2026, celebrate innovation and excellence across the sectors. 

Amongst those nominated also include college staff members Sofia Page, Lecturer in Animal Management, Owen Brignall, Advanced Teaching and Learning Coach as well as Jacob Ward, General Farm Worker. 

Ritchie Bywater, Head of Apprenticeships Askham Bryan College said: “As an apprenticeship department, we are incredibly proud to see such a strong representation among this year’s North Yorkshire finalists. This achievement reflects the dedication and talent of our apprentices and the commitment of the employers who support them. The passion and hard work of our entire apprenticeship team is evident in every nominee, and we’re honoured that this has been recognised with our own nomination for Provider of the Year.” 

Finalists span across four key categories including: 

Intermediate Apprentice 

• Andrew Morrow-Coates, The Oaks Golf Club 

• Elicia Sanchez-Clark, Elwick Stud 

• Jacob Ward, Velcourt / Askham Bryan College  

• Jake Fisher, WJ Richardson  

• Nick Smith, Leeds Golf Club 

• Tom Deighton, Oakdale Golf Club  

• Tom McBain, Askham Bryan College and Amey-Sheffield Council  

Higher Apprentice 

• Sofia Page, Askham Bryan College 

Mentor of the Year 

• Owen Brignall, Askham Bryan College 

Small and Medium Employer of the Year 

• Follifoot Riding Centre – Equine Employer 

Training Provider/Programme 

• Askham Bryan College – Apprenticeship Department