A University of Central Lancashire* graduate who had previously struggled in education is celebrating after claiming a regional apprenticeship prize.
Ryan Knight was chosen as the winner of Lancashire’s Higher Apprentice of the Year award after completing his two-year assistant practitioner degree apprenticeship.
The 31-year-old, from Nelson, completed the foundation level university course while working for Associated Wellbeing Ltd.
He said: “Winning the Higher Apprenticeship Award was an incredible moment for me. It means so much to me personally and professionally, I felt proud, emotional, and honestly a bit shocked.
“Knowing how much I’ve struggled in education, it meant so much to be recognised for my hard work and determination. It reminded me how far I’ve come and that I’m capable of achieving more than I ever thought possible.
“For my career in mental health nursing, it’s a huge confidence boost and shows that I’m on the right path. It’s given me even more motivation to keep learning, growing, and making a difference in the lives of those I support.”
It means so much to me personally and professionally, I felt proud, emotional, and honestly a bit shocked– Ryan Knight, winner of Lancashire’s Higher Apprentice of the Year award
By his own admission, Ryan has “struggled in educational settings”.
“My journey at university was quite unexpected in the best way,” commented Ryan. “I’ve always struggled in educational settings and thought this course would be really tough for me.
“But with the support from my tutors and fellow students, I found it to be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. The encouragement I received helped build my confidence, and I was able to push through challenges I didn’t think I could overcome. It’s been a journey of personal growth as much as academic development.”
The former Pendle Vale College and Nelson & Colne College pupil wanted to study on the Assistant Practitioner course to build on his healthcare experience and develop his skills further. He also wanted to use it as a key stepping stone on his pathway to becoming a nurse.
He added: “The course at the University of Central Lancashire appealed to me because of its strong student support and focus on practical learning. What I enjoyed most about the course was the balance between theory and practical learning. I liked applying what I learned in real clinical settings and developing my confidence. The support from tutors and working closely with other professionals also helped me grow in my role.”
Ryan, who completed his course in March, has taken the next step in his career by joining Aaban Partnership Ltd where he is working with young people with complex social, emotional, and behavioural needs.