Professor Robin Banerjee, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Global and Civic Engagement, presents at the event
Brighton & Hove City Council recently hosted the Citywide Skills Celebration at Jubilee Library on Wednesday 4 March 2026, bringing together learners, employers and training providers to recognise the power of learning, development and achievement.
Delivered in partnership with the Sussex Council of Training Providers (SCTP), and co-sponsored by a variety of organisations including the University of Sussex, the event celebrated learners from a wide range of programmes, including apprenticeships, Skills Bootcamps, and Adult and Community Learning. The evening highlighted the dedication of individuals who have invested in their development and the organisations that have supported them along the way.
Representing the University, Professor Robin Banerjee, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Global and Civic Engagement, spoke about the importance of purpose and the ambition to continue learning and developing new skills. He also presented the Employer of the Year award to Cheesmur Building Contractors, recognising their outstanding commitment to supporting learners on their development journey.
Read more from Robin's LinkedIn article.
The event included five award categories celebrating exceptional achievements, and the University was especially proud to see Sussex staff recognised in the Apprentice Learner of the Year category.
Staff were nominated by their line managers, and two University of Sussex colleagues were shortlisted:
Joanne Chee, from the Student Advice and Guidance team, who completed the Level 5 Coaching Professional apprenticeship, and Nicola Parsons, from the Apprenticeships team, who completed the Level 5 Operations Manager apprenticeship.
To be shortlisted is a significant achievement, and it was wonderful to see both Joanne and Nicola recognised for their hard work, commitment and personal development. We are especially delighted that Nicola Parsons was named Apprentice Learner of the Year.
Over the coming weeks, we will be sharing the inspiring nomination statements from line managers on the Staff Hub, shining a light on the achievements of Joanne, Nicola and other staff apprentices across the University.
If you’re considering an apprenticeship and want to explore what might be right for you or for a colleague wanting to upskill, please do get in touch —staffapprenticeships@sussex.ac.uk