UHI Argyll names Kevin Gresham Modern Apprentice of the Year 2026

UHI Argyll is proud to announce that Kevin Gresham, a Business and Administration Modern Apprentice, has been named Modern Apprentice of the Year 2026 for his exceptional contribution to Hermitage Academy, where he works as a Catering Manager.

Kevin was nominated by his assessor, Jackie MacPherson, who praised both his professionalism and his ability to apply his apprenticeship learning directly to meaningful improvements within the school.  

“Kevin consistently went above and beyond. His planning, organisation, and adaptability has been outstanding, and the impact of his work was felt by pupils, colleagues, and the wider school community.” 

A standout example of Kevin’s dedication was his delivery of curriculum linked food education activities. He independently planned and delivered a tropical fruit tasting session for S5–S6 Practical Cookery pupils, sourcing specialist produce, creating learning materials, and adapting the session at short notice when severe weather forced a school closure. His ability to revise plans while maintaining learning outcomes demonstrated impressive resilience and creativity. 

He later expanded this work by delivering scone making demonstrations for S3 pupils, collaborating closely with the Home Economics department to ensure curriculum alignment. Kevin trialled different recipes, planned contingencies, adapted his communication to suit pupil needs, and used structured feedback to refine subsequent sessions. 

Throughout his apprenticeship, Kevin has showed significant professional growth, strengthening cross departmental collaboration, managing his workload around peak catering periods, and consistently applying his learning to enhance the school experience for pupils. 

Kevin’s inclusive, proactive, and community focused approach has made a lasting difference at Hermitage Academy.