Whyy? Change Receive Quadruple Nomination at South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards

Whyy? Change has been shortlisted for four accolades at the South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards, including the prestigious title of "Training Provider of the Year".

The Rotherham-based apprenticeship training provider has also seen two of its employees nominated for three separate apprenticeship awards. Emma Harrison, Managing Director of Whyy? Change, is shortlisted for Higher Apprentice of the Year, which celebrates the success of those on a Level 4 (Foundation degree equivalent) apprenticeship in South Yorkshire. Emma’s recent success of becoming the World's First Ever Quality Practitioner Apprentice to achieve a Distinction and achieving Practitioner status with the Chartered Quality Institute (CQI) has been recognised by her colleagues and now the judges at the South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards.

Meanwhile, Matthew Trueman, Head of Communications at Whyy? Change, has been shortlisted for not just one but two apprenticeship awards, having been nominated for Degree Apprentice of the Year and Technology & Digital Apprentice of the Year. Matt is currently studying towards a degree equivalent, Level 6 Marketing Manager Apprenticeship in addition to a Level 6 CIM Diploma in Professional Marketing qualification, included in his apprenticeship. The Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) Level 6 Diploma in Professional Marketing qualification has enabled Matt to develop his strategic marketing skills, digital innovation and ability to manage resources effectively at a management level.

Upon completion of the Marketing Manager Apprenticeship, Matt will be eligible for registration as an Associate Member (ACIM) of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), which is first step towards becoming a Chartered Marketer.

Ray Byrne, CEO of Whyy? Change shared his thoughts; “We enter the South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards every year because year-on-year it turns out we have a success story to tell. In 2021 and again in 2022 we were short-listed in one category. Today we are short-listed in four categories. This is progress, and only goes to show that the ‘WHY & HOW’ do lead to positive outcomes.”

“Of course, I want to win, it signposts to those that matter that we are committed to promoting the best values of what apprenticeship stand for. It’s great to be in the company of believers. I may have brought the team together but its them that make the difference, and what a difference.”

“For me personally, I want to see my team raise their arms high with our version of the world cup. Now that will keep an old man happy.”

When asked about how training has had impact on an apprentice, Ray added: “We have many stories, but one stands out.  A young lady, supported by her business mentor enrolled on a marketing apprenticeship. Our very first meeting lacked a little in the conversation department. In the first month, it was a challenge in sharing experiences with the group. Fast forward and what really stands out is the day we passed along the certificates. Matt, in his role of Head of Communications, took the opportunity to ask for a video and a few words. My heart stopped for just a moment. The answer was a ‘YES’. The video was shot within 5-minutes. Fast track today, and our raw apprentice is currently in her second year at University. Now that is making a difference!”