NSCG Apprentice Recognised for Outstanding Achievement
16 July 2026
Newcastle College’s Level 4 Manufacturing Technologies apprentice Craig Ostrouchow who is completing his programme with Capula, was given a Highly Commended Award from Ladder for Staffordshire at the 2026 Apprenticeship Graduation in recognition of his commitment to personal and professional development.
Having contributed to winning crucial projects for the business, and helping to transform a previously challenging area of the company into something far more positive, Employer Capula were so impressed by the value Craig delivered to the organisation that he was promoted into a Project Manager role. The promotion involved taking on more responsibility for a small production area and quickly adapting to a new, high-pressure environment while continuing his studies. Craig found himself developing new leadership skills, and managing operational demands, pushing him significantly outside of his comfort zone.
Craig who has now completed his Level 4 apprenticeship with a Distinction, said, “I played a key part in maintaining a strong relationship between Capula and our client, helping to support open communication and influence important changes to critical terms.
“Supporting others has always been important to me. I am currently mentoring a Level 6 Embedded Apprentice and continue to provide informal guidance to many other apprentices who come to me. I take pride in being approachable and helping others succeed.
“Alongside my professional commitments, I have experienced significant personal challenges. During my apprenticeship, I got married and welcomed a premature baby into my family, while also supporting my wife in hospital and caring for our two other children with very limited external support. Despite these pressures, I remained focused on my goals and successfully completed my apprenticeship with a Distinction.
“My journey has not been straightforward, but it has shaped who I am today. I strongly believe that in life there will always be obstacles, but with determination, hard work, and self-awareness, it is still possible to succeed. As a mature apprentice, I hope to be a role model to others and show that regardless of the challenges you face, you can overcome them and achieve your ambitions.”
Ladder for Staffordshire is the leading multi-organisation champion for apprenticeships in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, working with employers and training providers to promote apprenticeships and improve skills and employment opportunities across the region.
For the past eleven years the organisation has held annual graduation ceremonies to recognise the skills, commitment and ambition of apprentices, highlighting the vital role they play in strengthening Staffordshire’s economy.
Craig’s story shows that with the attitude and determination to succeed, you really can achieve at any stage in life.