Leeds Beckett student shines in national apprentice of the year shortlist

Recognised for her dedication to learning at university, professionalism in the workplace and her outstanding contribution as a course representative, Trish was nominated by Helen Kennedy-Holleman, Head of Degree Apprenticeships for Leeds Business School, with the full support of her employer (J D Wetherspoon) and the course team. Trish is one of just four apprentices shortlisted for the national award.

As Distribution Manager for J D Wetherspoon, a promotion she secured six months ago, Trish has progressed through the company’s ranks over the past decade. She recently completed her Operational Departmental Management apprenticeship, achieving a distinction and earning a CMI accreditation through Leeds Beckett. Managing her responsibilities across different locations—living in Birmingham, working in Watford, and studying in Leeds— reflects her dedication and ability to balance multiple priorities.

The skills and confidence Trish gained through her CMI accreditation have prepared her for further study and for developing efficiencies in Wetherspoon’s distribution processes.

Tom Ball, People Director at J D Wetherspoon said: “At Wetherspoon, we are incredibly proud of Trish’s achievements and progression. Her recognition as a finalist for the CMI Outstanding Apprentice of the Year award is a testament to her commitment to personal and professional growth, both in her role and through her studies. We have no doubt that Trish will continue to achieve excellence and bring even greater success to her team and the business. Congratulations, Trish, on this well-deserved recognition!”

The CMI Outstanding Apprentice of the Year award celebrates apprentices who demonstrate significant personal and professional growth, applying their learning to advance both themselves and their communities.

Helen Kennedy-Holleman, Head of Degree Apprenticeships for Leeds Business School added: “Trish was an exemplar apprentice on the Level 5 Operations/Departmental Manager Apprenticeship, and we are delighted to have her back for the Level 6 Chartered Manager Apprenticeship.  She is an excellent apprentice role model, and the course team were all very proud when Trish was shortlisted for the CMI Award.”

Commenting on her achievement, Trish Burley said: “Studying as an apprentice whilst working full time with J D Wetherspoon took time and workload management I’d not experienced before. Leeds Beckett tutors, the apprenticeship team and wider roles were always on hand to guide and support wherever needed.

“The apprenticeship journey, as well as academic teaching, allowed me to develop myself hugely both in my vocation and as a manager. The wider aspect of meeting like-minded managers from across the country was also a well-received learning experience for the cohort as a whole – all of which had an impact on my application and successful promotion to Distribution Manager.

“The time, effort and dedication needed to pursue the apprenticeship was great, alongside work and personal commitments and to be nominated and shortlisted for a CMI award gives me a huge sense of pride, along with gratitude to both Leeds Beckett and my employer for recognising my enthusiasm, commitment and achievements.”

The CMI Award for Apprentice of the Year will be announced in Autumn 2024.

Find out more about degree apprenticeships at Leeds Beckett here.