Oaklands students beat off 500-strong competition to receive special awards

Two Oaklands College NiTP apprentices beat off over 500 other learners to receive special awards at the House of Lords on Monday evening.

Hosted by Lord Hoyle, the Aspiring, Achieving, Advancing Awards were presented by Dame Kelly Holmes to students who have excelled in achievement and dedication in their apprenticeships.

Both Aaron Weatherley and Richard Sherwood, Oaklands Apprentices with NiTP won awards in the Outstanding Learning category.

Aaron is an apprentice of XL Video, the largest provider of video projection equipment to the entertainment industry in the world. Richard works for St Luke’s school in Redbourn, a school for children with moderate learning difficulties.

Kerry Underwood, NiTP Academy Manager said: “Both Aaron and Richard impressed their employers with their hard working attitude, application and high marks. Aaron gained particularly high marks in the Comptia exams and St Luke’s School liked Richard so much from his work experience that they asked him to come back and he is now supporting the school full time when he is not studying for exams.”

Zoe Hancock, Principal for Oaklands College, who attended on the night said: “This sort of achievement is fantastic to celebrate and really shows the value and opportunity that apprenticeships offer young people. Success should be rewarded and I am pleased on behalf of both of our students who have bright futures ahead of them.”