Apprentice alumni named as regional finalist in the National Apprenticeship Awards 2023

Level 2 Hair apprentice, Vinny Lee Brennan, has been named as the North West regional finalist in the National Apprenticeship Awards 2023.

Now in their 20th year, the National Apprenticeship Awards, are designed to recognise and reward the achievements of exceptional apprentices, apprenticeship champions and apprenticeship employers.

Talented hairdresser, Vinny joined Newcastle College with no formal qualifications having been home schooled during the pandemic. It soon became apparent that exams were no barrier to his success and he went on to pass functional maths and English and also excelled in his Level 2 Hair apprenticeship, achieving a Distinction.

Vinny also went on to win a national industry award at the Quintessential (Quif) Centre Stage competition in 2022 and upon completing his apprenticeship in 2023, he opened his first salon, the Vinny Brennan Hair Lounge, in Congleton. Vinny also became a huge champion of apprenticeships, fronting NSCG’s marketing campaign during National Apprenticeship Week to inspire school leavers as they consider their next steps.

Jane Tunnicliff, Head of Employer Engagement and Training at NSCG, nominated Vinny for the National Apprenticeship Awards due to the passion and commitment Vinny exhibited to both his profession and his apprenticeship learning programme. She said: “I’m delighted that Vinny has been picked as the North West regional finalist, this is a real testament to how hard he’s worked to craft himself an incredible career in hairdressing.

“Vinny is a shining example of what can be achieved with an apprenticeship, drive and commitment and myself and everyone at NSCG wish Vinny the very best of luck.”

The overall winner of the National Apprenticeship awards will be announced on 29 November 2023 during a ceremony in London.

Talking about his apprenticeship, Vinny said: "The encouragement, support, and opportunity for growth provided to me at NSCG, and with my previous employer, have played a key role in my industry achievements. This was particularly due to the high expectations that they held, and the supportive way in which they were maintained.

“It wasn't about ticking boxes for them, they wanted me to do my absolute best."

NSCG works with hundreds of partner employers to offer apprentices the opportunity to learn vital, practical skills whilst studying for a nationally-recognised qualification.

Take a look at the range of exciting apprenticeships currently available at NSCG here.