Announced at the AoC Annual Conference in November, the shortlisting demonstrates how a strong employer-college relationship can deliver real impact for organisations and the wider community.
Together, NWSLC and George Eliot Hospital have created an extensive training and development offer aligned to NHS workforce needs. This includes apprenticeships, functional and digital skills, T Level industry placements, supported internships and emerging areas such as AI training. Programmes are delivered flexibly across hospital sites and NWSLC campuses to accommodate shift patterns and ensure accessibility for staff.
As one of the region’s largest employers, George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust serves over 300,000 people and employs more than 2,600 staff. The partnership has already supported around 250 learners and employees, contributing to improved confidence, retention and patient care. It has also opened up new pathways into healthcare roles for young people and those living with special educational needs and disabilities.
Ashi Williams, Chief People Officer at George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust and South Warwickshire University Foundation Trust said: “Our partnership with NWSLC offers opportunities not only to our existing workforce, through Apprenticeships and Functional skills, but also to the workforce of tomorrow, through T-Levels and Supported Internships.”
Principal and Chief Executive Marion Plant OBE FCGI added: “Being named a finalist demonstrates the strength of our employer partnerships and our shared commitment to developing a skilled, confident and inclusive workforce for the region.”
Award winners will be announced in early 2026.
