Weston College Customer Service Assistant and former apprentice, India Pasby, has been highly commended in the Intermediate Apprenticeship Award category at the South West regional heat of the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2026.

The regional awards ceremony took place on 13 October, recognising India’s inspiring apprenticeship journey, which has seen her overcome significant barriers, achieve a distinction and secure a full-time role at the College.

India joined Weston College on a Level 2 Customer Service Apprenticeship to gain valuable workplace experience while developing her confidence, communication skills and independence.

As a Reception and Customer Service Apprentice, India has become one of the first friendly faces welcoming visitors, students and parents to the College. Throughout her apprenticeship, she demonstrated exceptional personal and professional growth, developing strong customer service and organisational skills while confidently tackling challenges such as managing telephone calls and engaging in professional settings.

Beyond her distinction, India played an important role in helping the reception team achieve its targets, championed greater understanding of neurodiversity among colleagues and created a popular Wall of Positivity at Knightstone Campus to celebrate team achievements and positive feedback.

The judges commented that India’s progression has been fantastic, and that she is a great role model for apprenticeships as she has overcome challenges and is thriving in her role.

Speaking about her recognition, India said: “I am delighted to be highly commended for this award; it feels very surreal. Before starting my apprenticeship, I never thought I'd be able to hold down a job, so being shortlisted means a great deal to me.

“It has made me realise the value of an inclusive environment and the impact that joining Weston College has had on my life. Looking back, I now understand that it wasn't about trying to fit into workplaces by masking who I was. It was about finding an employer that recognised my potential and provided the support I needed to succeed.”

India also thanked her manager, Sarah Cammish, her assessor, Ffion Rose, and her Autism Support colleague, Alison Goodman, for their support throughout her journey.

The National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards celebrate outstanding apprentices, T Level students, employers and skills champions across a range of industries. With more than 1,000 entries nationally, the awards recognise excellence in training, recruitment, diversity and career progression.

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