Designed to recognise apprentices who demonstrate outstanding commitment, professionalism and growth in the workplace, the Apprentice of the Year award celebrates the transformative impact of apprenticeships. This year’s winner is Jacob Naylor, a Level 2 Healthcare Support Worker apprentice at Leeds City College, whose compassion, maturity and dedication have made a remarkable impact within the NHS.
Beginning his journey
Jacob began his Level 2 Healthcare Support Worker apprenticeship at just 16 years old, joining York Hospital as one of the youngest members of the clinical team. Despite his age, he has consistently demonstrated professionalism, emotional intelligence, and commitment beyond expectations, quickly becoming a valued and respected member of the ward team.
From the outset on Ward 12, Jacob has approached patient care with empathy, dignity, and compassion. He understands that healthcare is not solely about clinical tasks, but about human connection. Patients frequently respond positively to his calm, reassuring manner and his ability to actively listen, particularly those who feel anxious, vulnerable or isolated during their hospital stay.
As Jamie Jaffray, a Health Care Assessor at Leeds City College, explains: “Jacob Naylor is not only a credit to York & Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, but an exceptional example of the transformative power of apprenticeships within the NHS.”
Going above and beyond
Jacob has consistently demonstrated initiative in his professional development. Rather than limiting himself to the minimum requirements of his apprenticeship, he has shown a real enthusiasm to seek opportunities to broaden his knowledge and experience across the Trust.
He has independently arranged observational experience within theatres and volunteered for a three-month secondment on the Winter Pressures Ward, supporting colleagues during a particularly demanding period.
This proactive approach stood out to his colleagues, with Jamie sharing that “Jacob’s willingness to step forward in high-pressure situations speaks volumes about his character and dedication.”
His commitment not only expanded his own clinical exposure, but also provided much-needed vital support to colleagues during times of increased patient demand.
Overcoming challenges
Jacob’s journey has not been without its challenges. He manages dyslexia, which initially made the academic and written elements of his apprenticeship daunting. Rather than allowing this to hold him back, he has tackled it with determination, attending additional one-to-one support sessions, seeking feedback and developing effective strategies for independent learning.
While age-related restrictions limit some aspects of his clinical practice, Jacob has never allowed this to define his contribution. Instead, he focuses on mastering every responsibility available to him, performing each task to the highest possible standard.
His attention to detail, commitment to infection prevention and strong understanding of patient safety procedures reflect how seriously and thoughtfully he approaches his role within the healthcare team.
Recognition and future ambition
Jacob’s impact has not gone unnoticed; he was recently awarded the NHS England Chief Nursing Officer’s Award, recognising his compassion, professionalism, and ability to interact with patients in a way that exceeds expectations for someone of his age and experience.
Jamie sums up his journey powerfully, stating that: “In a relatively short period of time, he has evolved from a 16-year-old apprentice entering the workforce for the first time into a capable, resilient and highly respected member of the ward team.”
Jacob views his apprenticeship not simply as a job, but as the foundation of a long-term career within healthcare. His curiosity, ambition, and reflective approach showcase significant potential for continued growth within the NHS.
A truly deserving winner
Although his apprenticeship is ongoing, Jacob’s achievements to date are exceptional. His compassion for patients, commitment to colleagues and determination to succeed make him a powerful ambassador for apprenticeships and a very deserving Apprentice of the Year winner.
Jacob adds: “I am delighted to have received this Aspiration Award. My apprenticeship with the trust has helped me build on my previous care experience, develop new skills and knowledge, and grow in confidence when communicating with patients. I have really enjoyed learning, working with a supportive team, and seeing how much I have progressed."
Congratulations, Jacob! To read more inspirational stories from this year’s award winners, visit our Aspiration Awards 2026 page.
