{"id":41460,"date":"2026-02-05T14:56:13","date_gmt":"2026-02-05T14:56:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/?page_id=41460"},"modified":"2026-02-05T21:22:39","modified_gmt":"2026-02-05T21:22:39","slug":"apprentice-of-the-year-2025-meet-the-finalists","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/apprentice-of-the-year-2025-meet-the-finalists\/","title":{"rendered":"Apprentice of the Year 2025: Meet the Finalists"},"content":{"rendered":"    <section x-data=\"hero\" id=\"block_acf-block-6984bf492660d\" class=\"block-hero max-w-8xl mx-auto px-6  md:pb-[72px] \">\n        <div class=\"relative\">\n            <div x-ref=\"heroSlider\" class=\"h-[280px] sm:h-[400px] lg:h-[544px] rounded-3xl splide\">\n                <div class=\"splide__track rounded-t-3xl lg:rounded-3xl h-full\">\n                    <ul x-cloak class=\"splide__list\">\n                                                    <li class=\"splide__slide w-full h-full relative\" x-ref=\"heroAsset\">\n                                                                                                            <picture class=\"lg:hidden\">\n                                            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/AOTY-Header-LW-mobile-v1-768x650.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                                            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/AOTY-Header-LW-mobile-v1.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 1536px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                                            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/AOTY-Header-LW-mobile-v1.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                                            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/AOTY-Header-LW-mobile-v1.jpg\" class=\"w-full h-full object-cover rounded-t-3xl lg:rounded-3xl  object-center \" alt=\"Three people wearing OCS-branded vests stand smiling in front of a green background with a circular design behind them.\">\n                                        <\/picture>\n                                                                        <picture class=\" hidden lg:inline \">\n                                        <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/AOTY-Header-LW-v1-768x650.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                                        <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/AOTY-Header-LW-v1-1024x433.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 1536px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                                        <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/AOTY-Header-LW-v1.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/AOTY-Header-LW-v1.jpg\" class=\"w-full h-full object-cover object-center rounded-t-3xl lg:rounded-3xl\" alt=\"Three smiling volunteers wearing vests with \u201cCVS\u201d on them stand together on the right side of a green background with plenty of empty space on the left.\">\n                                    <\/picture>\n                                                            <\/li>\n                                            <\/ul>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"relative lg:absolute rounded-3xl w-full flex flex-col gap-8 md:gap-10 lg:gap-12 items-start justify-between text-ocs-gray-nav py-8 px-6 md:px-10 lg:p-16 -translate-y-6 mb-6 overflow-hidden lg:top-8 lg:left-8 lg:bottom-8 lg:max-w-[636px] lg:translate-y-0 lg:mb-0\" style=\"background-color: #FFFFFF\">\n\n                \n                <div class=\"flex flex-col gap-8 md:gap-10 items-start lg:justify-center\">\n                    \n\n                    \n                                            <div class=\"relative text-[22px] leading-[30px] -tracking-[0.5px] text-crop\">\n                            <p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-14763\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/AOTY-lockup-v2.png\" alt=\"OCS Apprentice of the Year 2025 logo\" width=\"800\" height=\"389\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<br \/>\n&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Recognising the Impact, Progress and Real World Contribution of Our Apprentices.<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n\n                <\/section>\n\n\n\n\n    <section id=\"daniel-mallender\"  class=\"block_text_image max-w-8xl mx-auto w-full px-4 py-6 md:py-[72px]\">\n        <div class=\"w-full px-4  md:px-8 lg:px-[54px] rounded-3xl\" style=\"background-color: #FFFFFF\">\n            <div class=\"relative flex flex-col gap-8 lg:gap-16 items-stretch justify-center  lg:flex-row-reverse \">\n            <div class=\"relative w-full lg:w-1\/2  h-[400px]  lg:h-auto aspect-[3\/2] lg:aspect-auto overflow-auto rounded-3xl \">\n                            <picture>\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Daniel-Malender-768x768.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Daniel-Malender-1024x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Daniel-Malender-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A man with glasses and a trimmed beard sits on an airplane next to a window. He wears a blue quilted vest with an OCS logo over a light blue shirt. The seat cover behind him reads STANDARD PREMIUM.\" class=\"object-cover w-full h-full rounded-3xl\" \/>\n                <\/picture>\n                    <\/div>\n                <div class=\"flex flex-col justify-center w-full lg:w-1\/2 gap-8 lg:py-6\">\n                            <h2 class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav font-medium text-[36px] md:text-[44px] lg:mb-2 leading-[44px] md:leading-[54px] text-crop\">Meet Daniel Mallender<\/h2>\n                                        <div class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav prose\">\n                    <h4>Area Manager (Transport Sector)<\/h4>\n<p>Daniel Mallender is an Area Manager within the busy Transport sector. He has worked on the same contract for 15 years, progressing from a frontline cleaning operative into a senior operational role. His career has developed through hands-on experience across frontline delivery, supervision, and team leadership.<\/p>\n<p>He chose to complete apprenticeships to support his progression, starting with a Level 3 Team Leader and Supervisor programme and later completing a Level 5 Operations Departmental Manager apprenticeship. The structure of the programmes allowed him to apply learning directly to his role, supporting a promotion to Area Manager during the Level 5 apprenticeship.<\/p>\n<p>As Daniel explains: <em>\u201cMy aim is to pass my knowledge and skill set on to other people, to further other people\u2019s careers as well.\u201d <\/em><\/p>\n                <\/div>\n                        <!-- icons -->\n                        <!-- buttons -->\n                            <div class=\"flex flex-row gap-4 items-center\">\n                                                                        \n<a href=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/news\/apprentice-of-the-year-awards-2025-meet-the-finalists\/\" class=\"  relative inline-block text-[16px] px-5 py-3 rounded-full focus:outline-none focus-visible:ring-2 ring-ocs-black  btn-secondary \"  target=\"_self\" >\n    Back to the Article <\/a>                                                            <\/div>\n                                                <!-- quote -->\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n\n    <section id=\"adam-march\"  class=\"block_text_image max-w-8xl mx-auto w-full px-4 py-6 md:py-[72px]\">\n        <div class=\"w-full px-4  py-8 md:p-8 lg:p-[54px] rounded-3xl\" style=\"background-color: #F7FBF7\">\n            <div class=\"relative flex flex-col gap-8 lg:gap-16 items-stretch justify-center  lg:flex-row \">\n            <div class=\"relative w-full lg:w-1\/2  h-[400px]  lg:h-auto aspect-[3\/2] lg:aspect-auto overflow-auto rounded-3xl \">\n                            <picture>\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Adam-March-768x768.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Adam-March-1024x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Adam-March-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A man with short hair, a trimmed beard, and glasses wears a navy blue suit and white shirt, standing indoors with a blurred background of lights and glass panels.\" class=\"object-cover w-full h-full rounded-3xl\" \/>\n                <\/picture>\n                    <\/div>\n                <div class=\"flex flex-col justify-center w-full lg:w-1\/2 gap-8 lg:py-6\">\n                            <h2 class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav font-medium text-[36px] md:text-[44px] lg:mb-2 leading-[44px] md:leading-[54px] text-crop\">Meet Adam March<\/h2>\n                                        <div class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav prose\">\n                    <h4>Account Director (Hard Services)<\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Adam March is an Account Director within Technical Services, leading facilities management delivery for the\u00a0University of East Anglia and the\u00a0Quadram\u00a0Institute\u00a0in Norwich.\u00a0He manages a large on-site team and a technically complex contract, where priorities can change quickly and no two days are the same.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">He chose to complete an\u00a0ILM Level 5 apprenticeship in Leadership and Management\u00a0to strengthen his management capability while continuing to work. The programme provided a practical framework for applying learning in real time, supporting his\u00a0progression\u00a0and helping him ground his experience in recognised practice.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As Adam explains:\u00a0\u201c<em>It reinforces behaviours you already have, but grounds them in a qualification. Sometimes\u00a0it\u2019s\u00a0about having that confidence that\u00a0you\u2019re\u00a0doing the right thing.<\/em>\u201d\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n                <\/div>\n                        <!-- icons -->\n                        <!-- buttons -->\n                            <div class=\"flex flex-row gap-4 items-center\">\n                                                                        \n<a href=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/news\/apprentice-of-the-year-awards-2025-meet-the-finalists\/\" class=\"  relative inline-block text-[16px] px-5 py-3 rounded-full focus:outline-none focus-visible:ring-2 ring-ocs-black  btn-primary \"  target=\"_self\" >\n    Back to the Article <\/a>                                                            <\/div>\n                                                <!-- quote -->\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n\n    <section id=\"emma-dyer\"  class=\"block_text_image max-w-8xl mx-auto w-full px-4 py-6 md:py-[72px]\">\n        <div class=\"w-full px-4  md:px-8 lg:px-[54px] rounded-3xl\" style=\"background-color: #FFFFFF\">\n            <div class=\"relative flex flex-col gap-8 lg:gap-16 items-stretch justify-center  lg:flex-row-reverse \">\n            <div class=\"relative w-full lg:w-1\/2  h-[400px]  lg:h-auto aspect-[3\/2] lg:aspect-auto overflow-auto rounded-3xl \">\n                            <picture>\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Emma-Dyer-768x768.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Emma-Dyer-1024x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Emma-Dyer-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A person with long blonde hair, glasses, and a black top with green patterns stands smiling in front of a wooden slat wall, wearing colorful lanyards around their neck.\" class=\"object-cover w-full h-full rounded-3xl\" \/>\n                <\/picture>\n                    <\/div>\n                <div class=\"flex flex-col justify-center w-full lg:w-1\/2 gap-8 lg:py-6\">\n                            <h2 class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav font-medium text-[36px] md:text-[44px] lg:mb-2 leading-[44px] md:leading-[54px] text-crop\">Meet Emma Dyer<\/h2>\n                                        <div class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav prose\">\n                    <h4>HR Operations Partner (Corporate)<\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Emma Dyer is an HR Operations Partner in the Private FM sector\u00a0team,\u00a0supporting workplace and venues teams across the UK. Based in Manchester, Emma works nationally, spending time on-site to build trusted relationships and support managers with people matters.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Emma chose to complete the\u00a0Level 5 HR Consultant and Partner apprenticeship\u00a0after stepping into a more senior HR role. Having already achieved her Level 3 CIPD qualification earlier in her career, the apprenticeship\u00a0provided\u00a0a practical way to continue progressing\u00a0and\u00a0apply learning directly to day-to-day work, particularly in areas such as change management.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Emma\u00a0explains:\u00a0\u201c<em>Protect your learning time.\u00a0You\u2019re\u00a0allowed that time, but only you can really prioritise it.<\/em>\u201d\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n                <\/div>\n                        <!-- icons -->\n                        <!-- buttons -->\n                            <div class=\"flex flex-row gap-4 items-center\">\n                                                                        \n<a href=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/news\/apprentice-of-the-year-awards-2025-meet-the-finalists\/\" class=\"  relative inline-block text-[16px] px-5 py-3 rounded-full focus:outline-none focus-visible:ring-2 ring-ocs-black  btn-secondary \"  target=\"_self\" >\n    Back to the Article <\/a>                                                            <\/div>\n                                                <!-- quote -->\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n\n    <section id=\"hailey-lewis\"  class=\"block_text_image max-w-8xl mx-auto w-full px-4 py-6 md:py-[72px]\">\n        <div class=\"w-full px-4  py-8 md:p-8 lg:p-[54px] rounded-3xl\" style=\"background-color: #F7FBF7\">\n            <div class=\"relative flex flex-col gap-8 lg:gap-16 items-stretch justify-center  lg:flex-row \">\n            <div class=\"relative w-full lg:w-1\/2  h-[400px]  lg:h-auto aspect-[3\/2] lg:aspect-auto overflow-auto rounded-3xl \">\n                            <picture>\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Hailey-Lewis-768x768.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Hailey-Lewis-1024x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Hailey-Lewis-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A woman with straight blonde hair, light skin, and blue eyes is smiling at the camera. She is wearing a black top and a red lanyard, standing indoors against a white and blue background.\" class=\"object-cover w-full h-full rounded-3xl\" \/>\n                <\/picture>\n                    <\/div>\n                <div class=\"flex flex-col justify-center w-full lg:w-1\/2 gap-8 lg:py-6\">\n                            <h2 class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav font-medium text-[36px] md:text-[44px] lg:mb-2 leading-[44px] md:leading-[54px] text-crop\">Meet Hailey Lewis<\/h2>\n                                        <div class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav prose\">\n                    <h4>Contract Support Manager (Security)<\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Hailey Lewis is a Contract Support Manager in the Security sector\u00a0team. Hailey joined the business as a scheduler and, over the past three years, has\u00a0progressed into a management role supporting operational teams on a major contract.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">She chose to begin the\u00a0Level 5 Operations Manager apprenticeship\u00a0to build on her practical experience and gain a stronger academic understanding of her role. For Hailey, it offered a way to develop confidence, leadership\u00a0skills\u00a0and a deeper insight into how effective\u00a0teams\u00a0work. Speaking about her experience,\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Hailey said,\u00a0\u201c<em>A lot of it you learn from doing the job at the same time, so then it comes a bit easier.<\/em>\u201d\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n                <\/div>\n                        <!-- icons -->\n                        <!-- buttons -->\n                            <div class=\"flex flex-row gap-4 items-center\">\n                                                                        \n<a href=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/news\/apprentice-of-the-year-awards-2025-meet-the-finalists\/\" class=\"  relative inline-block text-[16px] px-5 py-3 rounded-full focus:outline-none focus-visible:ring-2 ring-ocs-black  btn-primary \"  target=\"_self\" >\n    Back to the Article <\/a>                                                            <\/div>\n                                                <!-- quote -->\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n\n    <section id=\"jack-brant\"  class=\"block_text_image max-w-8xl mx-auto w-full px-4 py-6 md:py-[72px]\">\n        <div class=\"w-full px-4  md:px-8 lg:px-[54px] rounded-3xl\" style=\"background-color: #FFFFFF\">\n            <div class=\"relative flex flex-col gap-8 lg:gap-16 items-stretch justify-center  lg:flex-row-reverse \">\n            <div class=\"relative w-full lg:w-1\/2  h-[400px]  lg:h-auto aspect-[3\/2] lg:aspect-auto overflow-auto rounded-3xl \">\n                            <picture>\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Jack-Brant-768x768.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Jack-Brant-1024x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Jack-Brant-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A young man with short brown hair, wearing a navy blue Facilities polo shirt, stands indoors in front of a blurred wall featuring large text with the words patients and science.\" class=\"object-cover w-full h-full rounded-3xl\" \/>\n                <\/picture>\n                    <\/div>\n                <div class=\"flex flex-col justify-center w-full lg:w-1\/2 gap-8 lg:py-6\">\n                            <h2 class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav font-medium text-[36px] md:text-[44px] lg:mb-2 leading-[44px] md:leading-[54px] text-crop\">Meet Jack Brant<\/h2>\n                                        <div class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav prose\">\n                    <h4>Building Services Apprentice\u00a0(Hard Services)<\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Jack Brant is an engineering apprentice based at our customer&#8217;s pharmaceutical site in Slough, where he supports day-to-day maintenance as part of the on-site Hard Services engineering team.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Jack chose an apprenticeship route to build practical experience alongside formal training. After completing a\u00a0two-year general maintenance programme, he is now progressing through a\u00a0Level 3 engineering apprenticeship\u00a0with\u00a0a\u00a0Refrigeration and HVAC pathway. Looking ahead, Jack is working towards his F-Gas qualification to strengthen his capability\u00a0in\u00a0refrigeration and air conditioning, supporting safe, reliable on-site service\u00a0delivery\u00a0and contributing\u00a0to\u00a0greater technical resilience across the wider team.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As Jack explains, \u201c<em>There\u2019s been lots of support from the people around me, and the managers have put a lot of effort into helping apprentices through the course.<\/em>\u201d\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n                <\/div>\n                        <!-- icons -->\n                        <!-- buttons -->\n                            <div class=\"flex flex-row gap-4 items-center\">\n                                                                        \n<a href=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/news\/apprentice-of-the-year-awards-2025-meet-the-finalists\/\" class=\"  relative inline-block text-[16px] px-5 py-3 rounded-full focus:outline-none focus-visible:ring-2 ring-ocs-black  btn-secondary \"  target=\"_self\" >\n    Back to the Article <\/a>                                                            <\/div>\n                                                <!-- quote -->\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n\n    <section id=\"lucy-osgerby\"  class=\"block_text_image max-w-8xl mx-auto w-full px-4 py-6 md:py-[72px]\">\n        <div class=\"w-full px-4  py-8 md:p-8 lg:p-[54px] rounded-3xl\" style=\"background-color: #F7FBF7\">\n            <div class=\"relative flex flex-col gap-8 lg:gap-16 items-stretch justify-center  lg:flex-row \">\n            <div class=\"relative w-full lg:w-1\/2  h-[400px]  lg:h-auto aspect-[3\/2] lg:aspect-auto overflow-auto rounded-3xl \">\n                            <picture>\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Lucy-Osgerby-768x768.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Lucy-Osgerby-1024x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Lucy-Osgerby-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A person with light skin and straight, light brown hair tied back, wearing a black zip-up jacket, stands indoors against a blurred background. They are looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression.\" class=\"object-cover w-full h-full rounded-3xl\" \/>\n                <\/picture>\n                    <\/div>\n                <div class=\"flex flex-col justify-center w-full lg:w-1\/2 gap-8 lg:py-6\">\n                            <h2 class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav font-medium text-[36px] md:text-[44px] lg:mb-2 leading-[44px] md:leading-[54px] text-crop\">Meet Lucy Osgerby<\/h2>\n                                        <div class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav prose\">\n                    <h4>Relief Chef Manager (Catering)<\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Lucy Osgerby has spent the past four years with the business as a Relief Chef Manager, travelling between sites each day to support teams and\u00a0ensure\u00a0consistent service delivery in the catering sector. She began her career as a Unit Manager and progressed to her current role through hands-on operational experience and structured development.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Lucy chose an apprenticeship route to gain qualifications she could apply directly to her day-to-day work. After completing a\u00a0Level 3\u00a0Team Leader\u00a0apprenticeship, Lucy\u00a0progressed to\u00a0Level 5 in Operations Management, supporting her ambition to move into more senior operational roles.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201c<em>I wanted to gain real hands-on experience and then put the qualifications into daily life and within my role,<\/em>\u201d\u00a0she says.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n                <\/div>\n                        <!-- icons -->\n                        <!-- buttons -->\n                            <div class=\"flex flex-row gap-4 items-center\">\n                                                                        \n<a href=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/news\/apprentice-of-the-year-awards-2025-meet-the-finalists\/\" class=\"  relative inline-block text-[16px] px-5 py-3 rounded-full focus:outline-none focus-visible:ring-2 ring-ocs-black  btn-primary \"  target=\"_self\" >\n    Back to the Article <\/a>                                                            <\/div>\n                                                <!-- quote -->\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n\n    <section id=\"maria-rivera-loaiza\"  class=\"block_text_image max-w-8xl mx-auto w-full px-4 py-6 md:py-[72px]\">\n        <div class=\"w-full px-4  md:px-8 lg:px-[54px] rounded-3xl\" style=\"background-color: #FFFFFF\">\n            <div class=\"relative flex flex-col gap-8 lg:gap-16 items-stretch justify-center  lg:flex-row-reverse \">\n            <div class=\"relative w-full lg:w-1\/2  h-[400px]  lg:h-auto aspect-[3\/2] lg:aspect-auto overflow-auto rounded-3xl \">\n                            <picture>\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Maria-Rivera-Loaiza-768x768.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Maria-Rivera-Loaiza-1024x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Maria-Rivera-Loaiza-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A woman with curly gray hair and glasses smiles at the camera. She is wearing a dark top and jacket, standing indoors with blurred office and plant background.\" class=\"object-cover w-full h-full rounded-3xl\" \/>\n                <\/picture>\n                    <\/div>\n                <div class=\"flex flex-col justify-center w-full lg:w-1\/2 gap-8 lg:py-6\">\n                            <h2 class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav font-medium text-[36px] md:text-[44px] lg:mb-2 leading-[44px] md:leading-[54px] text-crop\">Meet Maria Rivera-Loaiza<\/h2>\n                                        <div class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav prose\">\n                    <h4>Front of House (Public Sector)<\/h4>\n<p>Maria Rivera-Loaiza has worked with OCS for over two years and is part of the soft services team in a secure public sector environment. She brings previous experience from the catering sector, where she took on management responsibilities and developed practical leadership skills through day-to-day work.<\/p>\n<p>She chose to complete a Level 3 Team Leader apprenticeship to deepen her knowledge and gain formal recognition for her experience. The apprenticeship has encouraged her to continue developing, and she is currently considering progressing to a Level 5 programme.<\/p>\n<p>As Maria explains: \u201c<em>Sometimes workplaces don\u2019t offer you the opportunity, so when I was offered it, I took it.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n                <\/div>\n                        <!-- icons -->\n                        <!-- buttons -->\n                            <div class=\"flex flex-row gap-4 items-center\">\n                                                                        \n<a href=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/news\/apprentice-of-the-year-awards-2025-meet-the-finalists\/\" class=\"  relative inline-block text-[16px] px-5 py-3 rounded-full focus:outline-none focus-visible:ring-2 ring-ocs-black  btn-secondary \"  target=\"_self\" >\n    Back to the Article <\/a>                                                            <\/div>\n                                                <!-- quote -->\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n\n    <section id=\"mary-nkrumah\"  class=\"block_text_image max-w-8xl mx-auto w-full px-4 py-6 md:py-[72px]\">\n        <div class=\"w-full px-4  py-8 md:p-8 lg:p-[54px] rounded-3xl\" style=\"background-color: #F7FBF7\">\n            <div class=\"relative flex flex-col gap-8 lg:gap-16 items-stretch justify-center  lg:flex-row \">\n            <div class=\"relative w-full lg:w-1\/2  h-[400px]  lg:h-auto aspect-[3\/2] lg:aspect-auto overflow-auto rounded-3xl \">\n                            <picture>\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Mary-Nkrumah-768x768.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Mary-Nkrumah-1024x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Mary-Nkrumah-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A woman with shoulder-length dark hair smiles at the camera. She is wearing a light purple patterned top and a gold necklace. The background is a light-colored wall.\" class=\"object-cover w-full h-full rounded-3xl\" \/>\n                <\/picture>\n                    <\/div>\n                <div class=\"flex flex-col justify-center w-full lg:w-1\/2 gap-8 lg:py-6\">\n                            <h2 class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav font-medium text-[36px] md:text-[44px] lg:mb-2 leading-[44px] md:leading-[54px] text-crop\">Meet Mary Nkrumah<\/h2>\n                                        <div class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav prose\">\n                    <h4>Housekeeping Operative (Private Sector)<\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Mary Nkrumah is a housekeeping colleague based at the\u00a0Manchester Arndale Centre, where she has worked with OCS for several years. Her role involves\u00a0maintaining\u00a0day-to-day standards on site and working closely with colleagues as part of a wider team.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Mary chose to complete a\u00a0Level 2 housekeeping apprenticeship\u00a0alongside her role. She saw it as an opportunity to continue learning while working, develop her skills, and build confidence through practical experience. The apprenticeship\u00a0enabled her to apply\u00a0her\u00a0learning directly in the workplace.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Reflecting on the experience, she says:\u00a0\u201c<em>You need to stay committed and manage your time well. If you\u00a0don\u2019t\u00a0understand something, you\u00a0have to\u00a0ask questions and be open to learning.<\/em>\u201d\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n                <\/div>\n                        <!-- icons -->\n                        <!-- buttons -->\n                            <div class=\"flex flex-row gap-4 items-center\">\n                                                                        \n<a href=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/news\/apprentice-of-the-year-awards-2025-meet-the-finalists\/\" class=\"  relative inline-block text-[16px] px-5 py-3 rounded-full focus:outline-none focus-visible:ring-2 ring-ocs-black  btn-primary \"  target=\"_self\" >\n    Back to the Article <\/a>                                                            <\/div>\n                                                <!-- quote -->\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n\n    <section id=\"mohammed-arif\"  class=\"block_text_image max-w-8xl mx-auto w-full px-4 py-6 md:py-[72px]\">\n        <div class=\"w-full px-4  md:px-8 lg:px-[54px] rounded-3xl\" style=\"background-color: #FFFFFF\">\n            <div class=\"relative flex flex-col gap-8 lg:gap-16 items-stretch justify-center  lg:flex-row-reverse \">\n            <div class=\"relative w-full lg:w-1\/2  h-[400px]  lg:h-auto aspect-[3\/2] lg:aspect-auto overflow-auto rounded-3xl \">\n                            <picture>\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Mohammed-Arif-768x768.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Mohammed-Arif-1024x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Mohammed-Arif-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A man with dark hair, a beard, and glasses, wearing a suit jacket and sweater, stands outside on a city street in front of a brick building.\" class=\"object-cover w-full h-full rounded-3xl\" \/>\n                <\/picture>\n                    <\/div>\n                <div class=\"flex flex-col justify-center w-full lg:w-1\/2 gap-8 lg:py-6\">\n                            <h2 class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav font-medium text-[36px] md:text-[44px] lg:mb-2 leading-[44px] md:leading-[54px] text-crop\">Meet Mohammed Arif<\/h2>\n                                        <div class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav prose\">\n                    <h4>Court &amp; Tribunal Security Supervisor (Public Sector)<\/h4>\n<p>Mohammed Arif is a security supervisor working in the Manchester region, where he has supported a range of sites over several years. After starting as a security officer, he progressed to supervisory roles and now leads a larger team in a complex counterterrorism environment.<\/p>\n<p>Mohammed chose to complete apprenticeships to develop his skills alongside his work and take on new challenges. He completed a Level 2 customer service apprenticeship, followed by a Level 3 first-line management programme, using the learning to strengthen his leadership, communication and decision-making in his role. Mohammed is now pursuing a third apprenticeship.<\/p>\n<p>Mohammed says: \u201c<em>Everything I was learning in the apprenticeship, I was actually doing, which makes it so much easier.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n                <\/div>\n                        <!-- icons -->\n                        <!-- buttons -->\n                            <div class=\"flex flex-row gap-4 items-center\">\n                                                                        \n<a href=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/news\/apprentice-of-the-year-awards-2025-meet-the-finalists\/\" class=\"  relative inline-block text-[16px] px-5 py-3 rounded-full focus:outline-none focus-visible:ring-2 ring-ocs-black  btn-secondary \"  target=\"_self\" >\n    Back to the Article <\/a>                                                            <\/div>\n                                                <!-- quote -->\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n\n    <section id=\"nathan-mackey\"  class=\"block_text_image max-w-8xl mx-auto w-full px-4 py-6 md:py-[72px]\">\n        <div class=\"w-full px-4  py-8 md:p-8 lg:p-[54px] rounded-3xl\" style=\"background-color: #F7FBF7\">\n            <div class=\"relative flex flex-col gap-8 lg:gap-16 items-stretch justify-center  lg:flex-row \">\n            <div class=\"relative w-full lg:w-1\/2  h-[400px]  lg:h-auto aspect-[3\/2] lg:aspect-auto overflow-auto rounded-3xl \">\n                            <picture>\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Nathan-Mackey-768x768.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Nathan-Mackey-1024x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Nathan-Mackey-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A man with short hair, a beard, and glasses wears a white shirt, dark tie, and HM Courts &#038; Tribunals Service lanyard, standing against a light grey textured wall.\" class=\"object-cover w-full h-full rounded-3xl\" \/>\n                <\/picture>\n                    <\/div>\n                <div class=\"flex flex-col justify-center w-full lg:w-1\/2 gap-8 lg:py-6\">\n                            <h2 class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav font-medium text-[36px] md:text-[44px] lg:mb-2 leading-[44px] md:leading-[54px] text-crop\">Meet Nathan Mackey<\/h2>\n                                        <div class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav prose\">\n                    <h4>Security Site Lead (Public Sector)<\/h4>\n<p>Nathan Mackey serves as a Security site lead, supporting daily operations and acting as the main point of contact for customers and colleagues. With several years\u2019 experience in security roles, he plays an active role in coordinating on-site activity and maintaining clear communication across the team.<\/p>\n<p>Nathan chose to begin an apprenticeship as a way to build skills and gain a recognised qualification alongside his role. After completing the Level 2 Security Operative apprenticeship, he progressed to the Security First Line Manager Level 3 apprenticeship to develop his leadership capability and deepen his understanding of operational management.<\/p>\n<p>Nathan explains: \u201cWhen the assessor came on site, I just did my normal duties. It felt like someone was simply there observing while I worked, and I didn\u2019t feel any pressure.\u201d<\/p>\n                <\/div>\n                        <!-- icons -->\n                        <!-- buttons -->\n                            <div class=\"flex flex-row gap-4 items-center\">\n                                                                        \n<a href=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/news\/apprentice-of-the-year-awards-2025-meet-the-finalists\/\" class=\"  relative inline-block text-[16px] px-5 py-3 rounded-full focus:outline-none focus-visible:ring-2 ring-ocs-black  btn-primary \"  target=\"_self\" >\n    Back to the Article <\/a>                                                            <\/div>\n                                                <!-- quote -->\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n\n    <section id=\"robert-cullen\"  class=\"block_text_image max-w-8xl mx-auto w-full px-4 py-6 md:py-[72px]\">\n        <div class=\"w-full px-4  md:px-8 lg:px-[54px] rounded-3xl\" style=\"background-color: #FFFFFF\">\n            <div class=\"relative flex flex-col gap-8 lg:gap-16 items-stretch justify-center  lg:flex-row-reverse \">\n            <div class=\"relative w-full lg:w-1\/2  h-[400px]  lg:h-auto aspect-[3\/2] lg:aspect-auto overflow-auto rounded-3xl \">\n                            <picture>\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Robert-Cullen-768x768.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Robert-Cullen-1024x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Robert-Cullen-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A man with short hair and a beard is sitting at a desk, smiling at the camera. He is wearing a navy blue sweater with a small embroidered logo and has a laptop and computer mouse in front of him.\" class=\"object-cover w-full h-full rounded-3xl\" \/>\n                <\/picture>\n                    <\/div>\n                <div class=\"flex flex-col justify-center w-full lg:w-1\/2 gap-8 lg:py-6\">\n                            <h2 class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav font-medium text-[36px] md:text-[44px] lg:mb-2 leading-[44px] md:leading-[54px] text-crop\">Meet Robert Cullen<\/h2>\n                                        <div class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav prose\">\n                    <h4>Projects &amp; Operations Lead (Hard Services)<\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Robert Cullen is a Project Manager on the Worcestershire County Council contract, supporting facilities management projects from early planning through delivery and close-out. He joined OCS in 2023 and brings experience from both trade and project environments.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Having begun his career with a plumbing apprenticeship, Robert chose to continue learning later in his career by completing the Level 4\u00a0Associate Project Manager apprenticeship.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Reflecting on that decision, he says:\u00a0\u201c<em>An apprenticeship set my career path. If I\u00a0hadn\u2019t\u00a0taken one when I did, I\u00a0wouldn\u2019t\u00a0be where I am now.<\/em>\u201d\u00a0The programme helped him formalise his experience, deepen his understanding of project delivery across sectors, and apply structured learning directly to his role.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n                <\/div>\n                        <!-- icons -->\n                        <!-- buttons -->\n                            <div class=\"flex flex-row gap-4 items-center\">\n                                                                        \n<a href=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/news\/apprentice-of-the-year-awards-2025-meet-the-finalists\/\" class=\"  relative inline-block text-[16px] px-5 py-3 rounded-full focus:outline-none focus-visible:ring-2 ring-ocs-black  btn-secondary \"  target=\"_self\" >\n    Back to the Article <\/a>                                                            <\/div>\n                                                <!-- quote -->\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n\n    <section id=\"ryan-billing\"  class=\"block_text_image max-w-8xl mx-auto w-full px-4 py-6 md:py-[72px]\">\n        <div class=\"w-full px-4  py-8 md:p-8 lg:p-[54px] rounded-3xl\" style=\"background-color: #F7FBF7\">\n            <div class=\"relative flex flex-col gap-8 lg:gap-16 items-stretch justify-center  lg:flex-row \">\n            <div class=\"relative w-full lg:w-1\/2  h-[400px]  lg:h-auto aspect-[3\/2] lg:aspect-auto overflow-auto rounded-3xl \">\n                            <picture>\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Ryan-Billing-768x768.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Ryan-Billing-1024x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Ryan-Billing-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A young person wearing a black chefs hat and jacket with an orange lanyard stands against a plain light-colored wall, looking at the camera with a neutral expression.\" class=\"object-cover w-full h-full rounded-3xl\" \/>\n                <\/picture>\n                    <\/div>\n                <div class=\"flex flex-col justify-center w-full lg:w-1\/2 gap-8 lg:py-6\">\n                            <h2 class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav font-medium text-[36px] md:text-[44px] lg:mb-2 leading-[44px] md:leading-[54px] text-crop\">Meet Ryan Billing<\/h2>\n                                        <div class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav prose\">\n                    <h4>Chef (Public Sector)<\/h4>\n<p>Ryan Billing is a chef based at The Harbour Hospital in Blackpool, where he supports the hospital\u2019s busy day-to-day food services for patients. Ryan\u2019s interest in hospitality began at an early age, when he helped his parents run a bed and breakfast, which later influenced his decision to pursue a career in catering.<\/p>\n<p>Ryan chose to complete a Level 2 Production Chef apprenticeship to develop his skills through hands-on learning. Balancing study with the demands of a busy kitchen was challenging, but he stayed committed and applied what he learned day to day. Ryan enjoys making patients happy and creating dishes that help them feel more at home by bringing comfort.<\/p>\n<p>Ryan explains: \u201c<em>The biggest thing for me was confidence. My anxiety levels went down, and I felt more comfortable in the kitchen.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n                <\/div>\n                        <!-- icons -->\n                        <!-- buttons -->\n                            <div class=\"flex flex-row gap-4 items-center\">\n                                                                        \n<a href=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/news\/apprentice-of-the-year-awards-2025-meet-the-finalists\/\" class=\"  relative inline-block text-[16px] px-5 py-3 rounded-full focus:outline-none focus-visible:ring-2 ring-ocs-black  btn-secondary \"  target=\"_self\" >\n    Back to the Article <\/a>                                                            <\/div>\n                                                <!-- quote -->\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n\n    <section id=\"ryan-thorburn\"  class=\"block_text_image max-w-8xl mx-auto w-full px-4 py-6 md:py-[72px]\">\n        <div class=\"w-full px-4  md:px-8 lg:px-[54px] rounded-3xl\" style=\"background-color: #FFFFFF\">\n            <div class=\"relative flex flex-col gap-8 lg:gap-16 items-stretch justify-center  lg:flex-row-reverse \">\n            <div class=\"relative w-full lg:w-1\/2  h-[400px]  lg:h-auto aspect-[3\/2] lg:aspect-auto overflow-auto rounded-3xl \">\n                            <picture>\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Ryan-Thorburn-768x768.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Ryan-Thorburn-1024x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Ryan-Thorburn-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A man in a black shirt.\" class=\"object-cover w-full h-full rounded-3xl\" \/>\n                <\/picture>\n                    <\/div>\n                <div class=\"flex flex-col justify-center w-full lg:w-1\/2 gap-8 lg:py-6\">\n                            <h2 class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav font-medium text-[36px] md:text-[44px] lg:mb-2 leading-[44px] md:leading-[54px] text-crop\">Meet Ryan Thorburn<\/h2>\n                                        <div class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav prose\">\n                    <h4>Cleaning Supervisor (Private Sector)<\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Ryan Thorburn is a Cleaning Supervisor at the\u00a0George Yard Shopping Centre, where he has worked for over 16 years. He\u00a0oversees on-site\u00a0cleaning operations and supports colleagues in delivering consistent standards in a demanding retail environment.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Ryan chose to\u00a0undertake\u00a0the\u00a0Level 3 Team Leader and Supervisor apprenticeship\u00a0after OCS introduced development pathways for colleagues looking to progress. The programme has helped him build confidence, strengthen his leadership approach, and develop practical skills that support his\u00a0day-to-day\u00a0role.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Ryan\u00a0commented,\u00a0\u201c<em>This apprenticeship has put me through functional skills, team leading, and coaching models, and it\u2019s helped me progress within my role.<\/em>\u201d\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n                <\/div>\n                        <!-- icons -->\n                        <!-- buttons -->\n                            <div class=\"flex flex-row gap-4 items-center\">\n                                                                        \n<a href=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/news\/apprentice-of-the-year-awards-2025-meet-the-finalists\/\" class=\"  relative inline-block text-[16px] px-5 py-3 rounded-full focus:outline-none focus-visible:ring-2 ring-ocs-black  btn-primary \"  target=\"_self\" >\n    Back to the Article <\/a>                                                            <\/div>\n                                                <!-- quote -->\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n\n    <section id=\"samuel-smith\"  class=\"block_text_image max-w-8xl mx-auto w-full px-4 py-6 md:py-[72px]\">\n        <div class=\"w-full px-4  py-8 md:p-8 lg:p-[54px] rounded-3xl\" style=\"background-color: #F7FBF7\">\n            <div class=\"relative flex flex-col gap-8 lg:gap-16 items-stretch justify-center  lg:flex-row \">\n            <div class=\"relative w-full lg:w-1\/2  h-[400px]  lg:h-auto aspect-[3\/2] lg:aspect-auto overflow-auto rounded-3xl \">\n                            <picture>\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Samuel-Smith-768x768.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Samuel-Smith-1024x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Samuel-Smith-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A man with blonde hair and a beard, wearing a black suit, white shirt, and navy tie, stands in front of a modern staircase. He has a purple awareness ribbon pinned to his lapel.\" class=\"object-cover w-full h-full rounded-3xl\" \/>\n                <\/picture>\n                    <\/div>\n                <div class=\"flex flex-col justify-center w-full lg:w-1\/2 gap-8 lg:py-6\">\n                            <h2 class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav font-medium text-[36px] md:text-[44px] lg:mb-2 leading-[44px] md:leading-[54px] text-crop\">Meet Samuel Smith<\/h2>\n                                        <div class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav prose\">\n                    <h4>Security Officer (Security)<\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Samuel Smith works in the events and hospitality sector,\u00a0supporting concierge security and welcoming senior politicians and VIP guests. With more than ten years\u2019 experience across a range of supervisory roles in construction-led environments, including major infrastructure projects, he brings a strong understanding of service delivery, teamwork, and site operations to his role.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Returning to work\u00a0after\u00a0a period of illness, Sam chose to undertake the\u00a0Security First Line Manager Level 3 apprenticeship. He saw the programme\u00a0as a way to\u00a0rebuild\u00a0his\u00a0confidence,\u00a0deepen his understanding of the business, and continue developing practical leadership skills alongside his day-to-day responsibilities. Sam is focused on progressing his career further.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In Sam\u2019s own words,\u00a0\u201c<em>Coming back to work was about rebuilding my confidence and understanding the business. The apprenticeship has been\u00a0a real positive\u00a0experience.<\/em>\u201d\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n                <\/div>\n                        <!-- icons -->\n                        <!-- buttons -->\n                            <div class=\"flex flex-row gap-4 items-center\">\n                                                                        \n<a href=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/news\/apprentice-of-the-year-awards-2025-meet-the-finalists\/\" class=\"  relative inline-block text-[16px] px-5 py-3 rounded-full focus:outline-none focus-visible:ring-2 ring-ocs-black  btn-secondary \"  target=\"_self\" >\n    Back to the Article <\/a>                                                            <\/div>\n                                                <!-- quote -->\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n\n    <section id=\"sulayman-zaman\"  class=\"block_text_image max-w-8xl mx-auto w-full px-4 py-6 md:py-[72px]\">\n        <div class=\"w-full px-4  md:px-8 lg:px-[54px] rounded-3xl\" style=\"background-color: #FFFFFF\">\n            <div class=\"relative flex flex-col gap-8 lg:gap-16 items-stretch justify-center  lg:flex-row-reverse \">\n            <div class=\"relative w-full lg:w-1\/2  h-[400px]  lg:h-auto aspect-[3\/2] lg:aspect-auto overflow-auto rounded-3xl \">\n                            <picture>\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Sulayman-Zaman-768x768.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Sulayman-Zaman-1024x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Sulayman-Zaman-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A man with short curly black hair and a beard smiles at the camera. He is wearing a black collared shirt with the letters BUR visible on the collar, standing against a plain beige background.\" class=\"object-cover w-full h-full rounded-3xl\" \/>\n                <\/picture>\n                    <\/div>\n                <div class=\"flex flex-col justify-center w-full lg:w-1\/2 gap-8 lg:py-6\">\n                            <h2 class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav font-medium text-[36px] md:text-[44px] lg:mb-2 leading-[44px] md:leading-[54px] text-crop\">Meet Sulayman Zaman<\/h2>\n                                        <div class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav prose\">\n                    <h4>Court Security Supervisor (Public Sector)<\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Sulayman Zaman is a Court Security Supervisor within the\u00a0Crown Courts, where he has supported the site for several years.\u00a0Known for his positive, can-do attitude and committed to long-term career progression,\u00a0he\u00a0chose the apprenticeship route to learn whilst working.\u00a0He began with a\u00a0Security First Line Manager Level 3 apprenticeship\u00a0and is now furthering his development through a\u00a0Level 5 programme.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Balancing his apprenticeship alongside becoming a new parent required discipline, organisation, and resilience, but he\u00a0remained\u00a0focused and made full use of the support available to him.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Sulayman says:\u00a0\u201c<em>Everything now revolves around my daughter. Becoming a parent has given me a renewed drive to succeed, because I want to create a better future for her.<\/em>\u201d\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n                <\/div>\n                        <!-- icons -->\n                        <!-- buttons -->\n                            <div class=\"flex flex-row gap-4 items-center\">\n                                                                        \n<a href=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/news\/apprentice-of-the-year-awards-2025-meet-the-finalists\/\" class=\"  relative inline-block text-[16px] px-5 py-3 rounded-full focus:outline-none focus-visible:ring-2 ring-ocs-black  btn-primary \"  target=\"_self\" >\n    Back to the Article <\/a>                                                            <\/div>\n                                                <!-- quote -->\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n\n\n\n    <section id=\"william-ford\"  class=\"block_text_image max-w-8xl mx-auto w-full px-4 py-6 md:py-[72px]\">\n        <div class=\"w-full px-4  py-8 md:p-8 lg:p-[54px] rounded-3xl\" style=\"background-color: #F7FBF7\">\n            <div class=\"relative flex flex-col gap-8 lg:gap-16 items-stretch justify-center  lg:flex-row \">\n            <div class=\"relative w-full lg:w-1\/2  h-[400px]  lg:h-auto aspect-[3\/2] lg:aspect-auto overflow-auto rounded-3xl \">\n                            <picture>\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/William-Ford-768x768.jpg\" media=\"(max-width: 640px)\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/William-Ford-1024x1024.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpg\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/app\/uploads\/2026\/02\/William-Ford-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A young man with short dark hair wears a black polo shirt with a Facilities logo and an orange lanyard. He stands against a plain white background, looking straight at the camera with a neutral expression.\" class=\"object-cover w-full h-full rounded-3xl\" \/>\n                <\/picture>\n                    <\/div>\n                <div class=\"flex flex-col justify-center w-full lg:w-1\/2 gap-8 lg:py-6\">\n                            <h2 class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav font-medium text-[36px] md:text-[44px] lg:mb-2 leading-[44px] md:leading-[54px] text-crop\">Meet William Ford<\/h2>\n                                        <div class=\"text-ocs-gray-nav prose\">\n                    <h4>Apprentice Electrician (Hard Services)<\/h4>\n<p>William Ford is an electrical apprentice who joined the business two and a half years ago. His role provides hands-on experience across a range of electrical tasks, alongside college-based learning to support his technical development.<\/p>\n<p>William chose an apprenticeship as a practical route into the trade, influenced by family experience and a preference for learning on the job. He joined OCS on the Property Maintenance Operative Level 2 apprenticeship, before progressing to the Electrical Installation and Maintenance Level 3 programme. Learning through challenge has been a consistent part of William\u2019s journey. With support from colleagues, he has developed confidence by asking questions, working across different sites, and applying new knowledge in real working environments.<\/p>\n<p>William commented: \u201c<em>I liked the idea of getting hands-on experience rather than sitting in university lectures all the time.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n                <\/div>\n                        <!-- icons -->\n                        <!-- buttons -->\n                            <div class=\"flex flex-row gap-4 items-center\">\n                                                                        \n<a href=\"https:\/\/ocs.com\/uk\/news\/apprentice-of-the-year-awards-2025-meet-the-finalists\/\" class=\"  relative inline-block text-[16px] px-5 py-3 rounded-full focus:outline-none focus-visible:ring-2 ring-ocs-black  btn-secondary \"  target=\"_self\" >\n    Back to the Article <\/a>                                                            <\/div>\n                                                <!-- quote -->\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Meet the OCS Apprentice of the Year 2025 finalists and see how apprentices are making a real impact through learning and day-to-day delivery.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":62,"featured_media":10000025763,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-41460","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - 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