A Weaver Vale Housing Trust (WVHT) apprentice has been recognised for outstanding achievement at Cheshire College – South & West’s ‘Apprenticeship and Skill Awards 2026’.
Ethan Colls, an apprentice joiner at the Trust, received ‘Construction Apprentice of the Year’ – an award delivered in partnership between the college and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).
Held on Thursday, 12th February, the annual awards ceremony celebrated the dedication shown by apprentices and employers in developing excellence across a broad range of professional skills.
The award was presented during National Apprenticeship Week (9th-15th February), which shines a spotlight on the important role apprenticeships play in building rewarding careers and strengthening the UK’s skilled workforce.
As an apprentice joiner, Ethan spends one day a week in college while gaining hands-on, practical experience during the rest of the week, working on a range of projects including crafting doors, fencing, and gates.
“I knew I didn’t want a desk job – I wanted to do something hands-on, and I was keen to take some past experience working on properties to the next level. This apprenticeship has been the perfect opportunity to develop my skills,” said Ethan.
“No two days are the same and I’m learning all the time with the support of my mentor and my colleagues. My skillset has developed a lot, and even my softer skills, like time management and communication, have come along with the help of the team around me.
“Everyone always has a smile and I haven’t come across anybody who isn’t engaged and keen to help me when I need support. I’m proud of the work I’ve produced so far at the Trust and of achieving this award, and it was really great having my parents there with me at the ceremony to celebrate.”
Karen Roberts, Assistant Principal for Apprenticeships & Employer Engagement at Cheshire College – South & West, said:
“Ethan has been exceptional from day one, and his achievement is very well deserved. Through his apprenticeship, he has developed not only technical expertise but also problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership skills that will serve him throughout his career.
“He’s a brilliant example of how apprenticeships, supported by strong links with employers, give young people the training, experience, and confidence to progress along their chosen career pathway.”
WVHT has a long-standing commitment to its apprenticeship programme, with apprentices actively taking part in real projects from day one, helping to deliver high-quality homes and services to customers.
Shaun McDermott, Contract Manager (Empty Homes) and Mentor to Trust Trade Apprentices at Weaver Vale Housing Trust, said:
“We’re incredibly proud of Ethan, and it’s been wonderful to see his work recognised beyond our own teams at the Trust. He is a credit to himself and to the Trust, and we look forward to seeing how he continues to grow throughout his apprenticeship.
“With the support from local partners such as Cheshire College, we’re committed to investing in the next generation of trades professionals and helping people to build their confidence and experience – equipping them with skills for life.”