SIX Keighley College students are celebrating after being awarded manufacturing industry accolades.

The sextet was successful in the annual Milner Awards, sponsored by Keighley Training Consortium.

The awards scheme recognises the achievements of first-year apprentices on the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering programme at the college.

Five of the winners – Toby Woodhead, Ben Bott, Max Weatherhead, Gabby Lloyd and Suraj Mistry – attended a presentation ceremony together with representatives of the apprenticeship employers, including Produmax and CarnaudMetalbox Engineering.

Among the accolades handed out were cash prizes for outstanding apprentice and academic and skills achievements, plus special recognition awards.

William Jowitt, director of Keighley Training Consortium and a member of the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering supervisory board, said: “Apprentices are one of the key engines of economic growth – each year we see ambitious learners strive for excellence through this programme.

“The collaborative approach we’ve seen among apprentices and local employers has been remarkable, clearly demonstrating the value of apprenticeships.

“These winners, who studied the programme in 2019, have shown exceptional skill development and admirable dedication.”

Ronnie Magee, deputy head of technology at Keighley College, said: “We’re extremely proud of our apprentices’ achievements.

“They’ve gained valuable experience while demonstrating impressive commitment to learning and development. These awards are an amazing opportunity to show how important working together with local employers is for the community.”

Ben, who received the Outstanding Apprentice Award, said he felt “incredibly proud”.

He added: “My mechanical engineering apprenticeship at Produmax has been a pivotal point in my learning and development, equipping me with the technical skills needed to flourish in my career.”

And Toby – an apprentice at CarnaudMetalbox, and recipient of the Practical Workshop Skills Award – said: “It’s an honour to receive the award.

“I was recognised for the hands-on work I did in the college workshop, such as milling and assembly jobs, as well as the machine building that I do as part of my apprenticeship.”