Made up of 14 categories this year, the South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards recognise the outstanding achievements, dedication, and impact of apprentices and their employers across the region. OLS are pleased to announce that they have two finalists in this year’s awards — in the categories of Advanced Apprentice of the Year and Engineering/Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year!
At OLS, we understand the value of apprenticeships and the vital role they play in shaping careers — whether someone is just starting out or looking to build on an already established path. Since 2019, we’ve supported 11 apprenticeships, with participants ranging in age from 18 to 50, from level 3 right through to degree level, demonstrating our commitment to lifelong learning and professional development.
Bradley Cooper, our finalist for Engineering/Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year. Brad has completed two apprenticeships during his time with OLS. He began with the Level 3 Fire Emergency and Security Systems Technician (Security) apprenticeship with Skills for Security, enrolling in November 2019. Although this programme is typically completed over 3 years, Bradley impressively finished it in just 2½ years. Not stopping there, Brad went on to complete a second apprenticeship — the Level 3 Team Leader qualification, which he began in 2023. He completed the course with an outstanding Distinction, showcasing not only his technical ability but also his leadership potential.
Taylor Foster, our finalist for the Advanced Apprentice of the Year category, started with OLS in 2023, enrolling on the Level 3 Fire Emergency and Security Systems Technician (Security) apprenticeship with Skills for Security where he must demonstrate a strong understanding of electronic systems including CCTV and access control. His tutors are very impressed with his progress, and he is on track to complete the apprenticeship next year.
Jason Sharpe, Operations Director at OLS said ‘We are incredibly proud to see both Brad and Taylor recognised as finalists in this year’s South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards. Their dedication, professionalism, and drive to develop their skills are a true reflection of the values we hold at OLS. Apprenticeships are an essential part of our growth as a business, enabling us to build talent from within and support our people in achieving their full potential. Watching individuals like Brad and Taylor thrive is exactly why we continue to invest in apprenticeship programmes across all levels. We’ll be cheering them on at the awards night!’
The awards ceremony will be held at Sheffield United Football Club on the 8th of May 2025.
