Advanced Level Apprentice of the Year

Former RGS Worcester student Emelia Hughes has achieved remarkable success, being named Worcestershire Advanced Level Apprentice of the Year at the 2024 Worcestershire Apprentice Awards. The prestigious event took place at West Midlands Safari Park and was attended by over 300 representatives from employers, apprentices, and training providers.

Emelia, currently a mechanical apprentice at Yamazaki Mazak’s European Manufacturing Plant in Worcester, was recognised for her exceptional dedication and achievements in her apprenticeship. Alongside her demanding work and studies, Emelia has also excelled as an accomplished archer for Great Britain.

Yamazaki Mazak, Emelia’s employer, celebrated a triumphant evening by winning three major awards, including Large Apprentice Employer of the Year and the overall Worcestershire Apprenticeship Employer of the Year. The company has trained over 250 apprentices across various disciplines, underscoring its commitment to developing future engineering talent.

Max Jones, People Development Manager at Yamazaki Mazak, praised Emelia, calling her “a brilliant ambassador not only for Mazak, but for engineering as a career.” Richard Smith, European Group Managing Director, highlighted the lasting impact of the company’s apprenticeship programme, noting that many former apprentices now contribute to training the next generation.

Emelia’s recognition reflects both her personal dedication and the supportive environment provided by her apprenticeship. Her success serves as an example of the opportunities apprenticeships can offer to young people seeking rewarding careers in engineering and beyond.

Emelia is a national champion in archery and has competed for Great Britain. She has a very bright future ahead.

Congratulations to Emelia for this outstanding achievement. She continues to make RGS Worcester proud!