Sarah Ratcliffe, 23 - a former Bolton College hairdressing apprentice - saw off tough competition at the regional event, where a high number of candidates from colleges and training providers across the North West went head-to-head for the prestigious accolade.

The scheme is run by the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) - a Government-backed organisation, which supports, funds and co-ordinates the delivery of apprenticeships throughout England. Now in its tenth year, the awards celebrate the country's top apprentices, who have been singled out for making a real difference to their organisation.

Sarah, said: "It's an honour to be recognised with this award. There were so many potential worthy winners, so to come out on top is a real achievement! Taking an apprenticeship was an absolute no-brainer and it's given me an opportunity to build a career that I love."

Sarah started her Level 2 apprenticeship on a day release at Bolton College in 2008. In March 2013, the award-winning apprentice completed her Level 3 and took a huge leap by opening her very own hair salon, Sarah's Hair - at the tender age of 23.

She continued: "My ultimate goal is to inspire the next generation of hairdressers and salon owners, and I look forward to building a lasting relationship with Bolton College and its team of lecturers who have really helped me on my way."

"I also plan to open a training academy at my own salon to pass on key skills to my employees. In five years' time I hope to have the most renowned hair salon in Bolton and feel that ongoing access to training and development is the best way to do just that."

Marie Gilluley, Principal of Bolton College, said: "The National Apprenticeship Awards is one of the most high profile events in the awards calendar. We're all extremely proud of Sarah's achievements and are thrilled that she has been recognised with this fantastic accolade"

"Sarah is a true inspiration to young people wanting to start their own business. Her success is testament to the hard work and dedication that she has put into her studies and her sheer determination to open her own hair salon. We could not be more proud of her achievements and wish her all the success for the national finals later in the year."

The regional awards ceremony for Greater Manchester, Staffordshire, Cheshire and Warrington, took place on 11 September 2013. Sarah will now go on to the national finals held in London in November.

Apprenticeships offer practical training opportunities in the workplace - giving employees the skills they need to build a career and employers access to committed workers, who can fill a skills gap and contribute to the bottom line.

Bolton College has a successful track record for delivering high quality government-backed apprenticeships with businesses in the local area. Bolton College's comprehensive range of full and part-time hairdressing courses enables its students to acquire industry-leading skills through training that is specifically designed to help them become a professional hairdresser.

Learners are taught a wide range of modern and traditional hairdressing courses, which are available throughout the year, delivered from many of its sites in Bolton town centre and the broader borough.