AoC Student of the Year Awards: North Notts College Apprentice Named Finalist

Bricklaying Apprentice Corey Richardson will represent RNN Group on the national stage after being named a finalist for the Association of Colleges (AoC) Student of the Year Awards.

Selected alongside 13 other finalists, he will compete for the Apprentice of the Year Award at the ceremony in November.

Breaking Records

In May 2024, Corey won the Guild of Bricklayers Junior Title at Grimsby Institute. He became the first North Notts College learner to win the competition since its inception nearly five decades earlier. One year later, he secured the Guild of Bricklayers Senior Title, marking the first senior win for the College since 1987.

Away from the competitions, Corey continues to develop his skills through an apprenticeship with his father’s bricklaying business. At college, he has consistently supported fellow apprentices, contributing to a positive learning environment.

Reflecting on his experience, Corey said:

“My confidence and communication skills have improved throughout my apprenticeship, while I’ve also developed the practical skills I need as a bricklayer.”

Looking Ahead

Corey will now join finalists from across England at the AoC Annual Conference dinner on Tuesday 10 November 2026, when the Apprentice of the Year winner will be announced.

Cheryl, Director of Quality & Academic Standards at RNN Group, said:

“We are delighted that Corey has been shortlisted as a finalist and look forward to the winner being announced.”

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