WAES Celebrates Apprenticeships at the Royal Ballet and Opera House

WAES marked apprenticeships and achievement at the Linbury Theatre, with generous support from the Royal Ballet and Opera House and sponsorship from The London Heritage Quarter. Held during National Apprenticeship Week 2026, the event united apprentices and employers to celebrate success, commitment, and the role of apprenticeships in expanding opportunities across the cultural and heritage sectors.

WAES Principal Arinola Edeh opened the afternoon, highlighting the impact of the apprenticeship programme in developing sector talent. WAES Apprenticeships Manager Jenny Pistella followed, emphasising the importance of accessible and meaningful career pathways. After a short film celebrating apprentice journeys, WAES Head of Apprenticeships and Professional Pathways Gail Isaac and Councillor Maggie Carman, presented certificates to graduates in recognition of their achievements.

WAES Apprentice Macy Quinn shared reflections on her apprenticeship journey before the Awards Ceremony, with commendations read by Jenny. Also, in attendance were WAES Governor Carolyn Keen, and Alexandra Hughes, who joined in congratulating our apprentices as they received their certificates.

Congratulations to all our apprentices who, graduated, were highly commended and to this year’s award winners. Your dedication, hard work and achievements are a credit to you and an inspiration to others beginning their apprenticeship journey.

The afternoon concluded with Employer of the Year awarded to Historic Royal Palaces for its outstanding commitment to apprentices. Closing remarks from WAES Assistant Principal Curriculum and Quality Alison Muggridge reaffirmed the vital role apprenticeships play in creating opportunity and widening participation across the cultural and heritage sectors.