Bradford Apprenticeship Partnership Wins Multiple Awards
July 23, 2026Local employers and apprentices recognised at West Yorkshire Awards
A partnership between BDCU Credit Union and Bradford College has been acknowledged at the 2026 West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards, with the credit union receiving the ‘SME Employer of the Year’ award and apprentice Ariba Matloob named ‘Advanced Apprentice of the Year’.
Awards Ceremony Highlights
The awards ceremony took place at the Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford, celebrating the achievements of apprentices, training providers, and businesses supporting apprenticeship programmes across the region. Fourteen awards were presented during the event, hosted by radio DJ Rich Williams.
BDCU Credit Union’s Role in Apprenticeships
BDCU Credit Union was recognised for its commitment to employing apprentices, who now make up approximately 40% of its workforce. The organisation employs apprentices across various departments and has implemented a recruitment and mentoring strategy aimed at developing practical skills and supporting career progression.
Ian Brewer, EDI Community Development Lead at BDCU and last year’s Mentor of the Year award winner, commented on the success:
“We were absolutely thrilled to win the SME employer category and to see our brilliant apprentice, Ariba, also come home with a trophy. Our clear recruitment and mentoring strategy ensure apprentices gain the practical skills needed to succeed.”
“Our focus on developing talent – in partnership with Bradford College – has led to high retention and promotions, making BDCU a shining example of how apprenticeships can drive business success and benefit the local community.”
Apprentice Achievement
Ariba Matloob, who recently joined BDCU’s member services team, was recognised for her enthusiasm, commitment, and contribution to the team’s goals while actively learning new processes.
Zoe Corcoran, Head of Apprenticeships & Business Development at Bradford College, highlighted the importance of employer support in apprenticeship success:
“It’s fantastic to see another of our amazing apprentices get the attention they deserve. Ariba is a perfect case study of what can be achieved with an apprenticeship, especially when supported by a respected employer like BDCU.”
“Not only is BDCU doing a brilliant job of helping the community – promoting financial wellbeing and running a number of successful financial inclusion projects – it has a clear focus on helping local employees by actively supporting vital apprenticeship pathways.”
About the West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards
The annual West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards aim to showcase the outstanding work of apprentices, training providers, and businesses that champion apprenticeship programmes throughout the region. The awards recognise the commitment to skills development and local economic growth.
For more information about apprenticeship programmes at Bradford College or how apprenticeships could support local businesses, visit Bradford College Apprenticeships.
