Conservatory Outlet has celebrated two victories at the West Yorkshire Apprentice Awards.

Operations manager, Michelle Wootton, was named the region’s Mentor of the Year. Nikki Lewis, who recently completed her Level 6 marketing manager apprenticeship, received a special commendation for her work.

Founded by the Yorkshire Evening Post, the awards ceremony recognises apprenticeships, mentors and businesses within West Yorkshire that excel at delivering and supporting vocational education through work.

Michelle Wootton was crowned Mentor of the Year due to her involvement with Conservatory Outlet’s in-house apprenticeship programme.

She commented: “I started as an apprentice over 20 years ago, and to be recognised as West Yorkshire’s Mentor of the Year is an incredibly proud moment for me. Apprenticeships are a fantastic option for people who want to earn and learn. It doesn’t matter if you’re leaving school and want to build experience, change careers or further build your skillset – there’s an apprenticeship out there for everyone.”

In her current role, Michelle oversees the day-to-day functions of the manufacturer’s order processing and customer service divisions. She also works closely with HR and other key stakeholders to develop the company’s apprenticeship programme, providing continuous training and development plans for many of the company’s sector-specific apprenticeships, and mentoring many school leavers.

Mick Giscombe, Conservatory Outlet’s managing director, said: “I’m delighted for Michelle. Being named Mentor of the Year is a fantastic achievement that speaks volumes about her passion for supporting those around her, especially our office-based apprenticeships.”

Nikki Lewis has recently completed her apprenticeship, gaining a distinction, and is said to have played a crucial role in expanding Conservatory Outlet’s marketing capabilities.

She commented: “Apprenticeships are for people of all ages and abilities. I’ve found the course extremely fulfilling, and I’d recommend anybody wanting to progress to seriously consider one.”

Mick Giscombe added: “Nikki’s progression at Conservatory Outlet has been outstanding. She’s worked extremely hard, managing her studies and role side by side.”