News & Updates
The Next 50 Years Start Here: Skills, Apprenticeships and Industry Excellence
The Textile Centre of Excellence recently had the honour of celebrating a major milestone – their 50th anniversary!
Their Golden Jubilee and Awards Ceremony brought together 300 learners, apprentices, 100+ member companies and industry leaders from across fashion, textiles and advanced manufacturing to recognise not just the history, but the future being built together. It was an opportunity to celebrate achievement, reflect on progress and – most importantly – highlight the people who are driving the sector forward.
What stood out most on the night was the calibre of the apprentices and graduates. They represent the very best of what the sector can be – highly skilled, motivated and ready to contribute from day one. Through apprenticeships, the teams are not only gaining technical expertise, but also developing the real-world experience, resilience and problem-solving ability that modern industry demands.
Winner Chris Antich Inspiration Award: Rhys Hughes – Standard Wool
Apprenticeships are not just a pathway into work – they are a fully-funded powerful engine for growth. At a time when UK manufactures are navigating rapid change – from rising energy costs, to digital transformation and sustainability challenges – the importance of investing in skills cannot be overstated. This is why apprenticeships sit at the heart of the industry.
This 50th anniversary is a moment to celebrate – but it is also a call to action.
In order to have a strong, resilient and innovative sector, companies must continue to invest in people. They must champion apprenticeships, support skills development and create clear pathways for the next generation to succeed. To everyone who has contributed to TCoE’s success over the past 50 years – thank you and they look forward to continued collaboration across the sector. And to those continuing to support, train and inspire the next generation across textiles and advanced manufacturing: your role has never been more important.
Joint Winners of Apprenticeship Training Company of the Year: Arville Textiles and Abraham Moon & Sons Ltd
Winner Commercial Training Company of the Year: Thornton & Ross
