Championing Apprenticeship Success: Christina Nicholson Wins Mentor of the Year at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group Awards

We’re delighted to share some fantastic news during National Apprenticeship Week – Christina Nicholson, our HR Service Manager, won Mentor of the Year at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group’s Apprenticeship Awards last night. Held annually, the event brings together apprentices from across Yorkshire as well as their trainers and organisations that help in their development, to celebrate a series of special awards.

Christina was nominated by Wakefield College in recognition of her outstanding commitment to supporting apprentices. After completing her own CIPD Level 5 qualification at the college in 2021, she continued to nurture that relationship – supporting members of her team at Morgan Sindall Property Services through their HR apprenticeships. To date, two team members have successfully completed their programmes, two are currently studying, and her mentorship has directly supported career progression within the team.

Among those she has mentored is Lois Murgatroyd, who has now successfully completed both her qualifications and progressed into her role as HR Administrator – a testament to the supportive environment Christina creates and the development opportunities she champions.

Through monthly performance and wellbeing catch-ups, tailored development plans and close collaboration with college tutors, she ensures apprentices gain valuable exposure across HR, Training, Recruitment, Payroll and Fleet. This breadth of experience helps them build the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to thrive.

Christina Nicholson, HR Service Manager, Morgan Sindall Property Services, said:

“For some apprentices, this is their first job. Supporting them as they transition from education into the workplace is incredibly important. I’m proud to see the team grow in confidence, take a proactive approach and challenge the status quo to improve how we work.”

Her mentoring has already helped colleagues secure promotions and grow into well-rounded HR professionals.

Hilary Hodson, Head of HR, Morgan Sindall Property Services, said: “Christina’s dedication to developing her team is exceptional. She creates an environment where apprentices feel supported, valued and empowered to succeed. This nomination is thoroughly deserved.

“Christina’s recognition highlights the power of mentoring, not only in developing careers, but in shaping confident, capable professionals for the future.”

For more information, please email Communications@morgansindall.com