Apprentice Matthew Gains National Recognition

Event Date

Tuesday, 1 April, 2025

Matthew Hadnum in London proudly displaying his certificate

An engineering apprentice supported by Hartlepool College of Further Education and Gestamp Tallent has been recognised nationally for his outstanding commitment and achievement.

Matthew Hadnum, a 23-year-old Level 3 Mechatronics Maintenance Technician apprentice from Gateshead, received the prestigious City & Guilds Livery Company Prize for 2025. The award was presented by the Worshipful Company of Tin Plate Workers alias Wire Workers of the City of London during a ceremony at Mansion House.

Matthew’s journey into engineering followed an unconventional route. After leaving Lord Lawson Academy and working in retail for five years, he discovered a passion for fixing and understanding how things work. That led him to enrol on Hartlepool College’s mechatronics apprenticeship programme in partnership with Gestamp Tallent in Newton Aycliffe.

Now in his third year, Matthew has consistently demonstrated academic excellence and a strong work ethic. He’s maintained an outstanding grade profile – with distinctions in the vast majority of his assessments – and earned the opportunity to complete his apprenticeship End Point Assessment a year early.

Matthew receiving his award from dignitaries in Manor House, London

Matthew said:
“I’m proud to have received this award. It was a fantastic experience – a big occasion and something I’ll never forget. I’ve learned so much in three years. The College has been really supportive whenever I’ve had questions, and I’ve enjoyed every minute working with Gestamp Tallent.”

Chris King, Head of Apprenticeships at Hartlepool College, said:
“Matthew is a fantastic example of what apprenticeships can achieve. He has excelled both academically and practically, regularly going above and beyond in the workplace. He’s earned the respect of his tutors and colleagues, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of his ability and determination.”

Michael Raine, Senior Facility Engineer at Gestamp Tallent, added:
“Matthew is a capable and committed apprentice who is always eager to learn and take on new challenges. His maturity and approach to work have been excellent, and we’re incredibly proud of his achievement – the first time one of our multi-skilled maintenance technicians has received this award.”

Matthew now hopes to secure a permanent role in engineering and continue progressing in the industry.