On Thursday 11 June, Weston-super-Mare’s iconic Winter Gardens provided the perfect setting for the highly anticipated Weston College Business Awards 2026. 

The annual event celebrated the outstanding partnerships between Weston College and employers across the region, recognising learners and businesses who have worked together to create meaningful opportunities through apprenticeships, training programmes, industry placements, and community initiatives. 

Guests were treated to a delicious two-course meal, expertly prepared and served by Weston College Hospitality and Catering students, before the awards ceremony began. 

Throughout the evening, finalist showcase videos highlighted the inspiring achievements of nominees before winners were announced and welcomed to the stage to enthusiastic applause from family, friends, colleagues, and distinguished guests. Awards were presented by Weston College Principal and Chief Executive Pat Jones alongside the Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset, Mohammed Saddiq. 

With such a strong field of nominations, the judging process was one of the most competitive yet. The exceptional quality across all categories meant every finalist should be incredibly proud of their achievements. Weston College extends its sincere thanks to the judging panel – Principal and CEO Pat Jones, Chair of Governors Dr Jane Hadfield MBE, Councillor Mike Bell, and Student Governor and former Business Awards finalist Jack Biggs – for their time, expertise and careful consideration in selecting this year’s winners. 

This year’s winners demonstrated exceptional commitment, innovation, and collaboration, with each award recognising both the learner and their employer partner: 

Work Experience Partnership Award: Tobias Olson and Victoria Park Community Centre 

Adult Training Partnership Award: Mark Taiani and Bakers Dolphin 

Industry Placement Partnership Award: Rosie Palmer and Funny Bunnies Preschool 

Into Work Partnership Award: Emily Plumley and Haywood Village Academy 

Apprenticeship Partnership Award: Hannah Taylor and Airbus 

University Centre Weston Higher and Degree Apprenticeship Award: Charlie Eldergill and Ministry of Defence 

Career Excellence Hub Partnership Award: Access Your Care 

Community Project Award: Jobcentre Takeover Day in collaboration with the Department for Work and Pensions 

Alumni Impact Laureate Award: Jack Billingham, Alun Griffiths 

The evening also celebrated the achievements of Business and Travel & Tourism learners who took part in the Weston Hospicecare Business Enterprise Challenge. Supported by local business mentors who provided guidance and investment, learners developed and ran their own ventures, generating profits that were donated to Weston Hospicecare. 

As a result of their outstanding efforts, Weston College proudly presented Weston Hospicecare with a cheque for £6,062.13, raised entirely by learners through the challenge. 

Speaking after the event, Principal and Chief Executive Pat Jones said: 

“The Weston College Business Awards was a wonderful celebration of the talent, ambition and partnerships that help our learners succeed. 

Behind every award is a learner who has shown determination, an employer who has invested in their potential, dedicated staff who have supported their journey, and family and friends who have encouraged them along the way. Achievement is never a solo effort. 

The strength of this year’s nominations reflects the outstanding partnerships between the College and our employer community, and every finalist should be incredibly proud of their achievements. 

Congratulations to all our winners and finalists. Your success is inspiring, and I look forward to seeing where your journeys take you next.” 

Weston College would like to extend its sincere thanks to headline sponsor Alun Griffiths, drinks sponsor Bristol Airport, Alumni Impact Laureate Award sponsor Octavius, Apprenticeship Partnership Award sponsor Mindful Education, and publication sponsor Pace. Their continued support and partnership help make events such as the Weston College Business Awards possible and ensure the ongoing celebration of learner and employer success across the region.