An apprenticeship graduate has credited support from Teesside University with helping her develop professionally and better understand the support she needs to succeed.
Amy Norton was named Degree Apprentice of the Year 2026 at the North East Apprenticeship Awards after completing Teesside University’s Level 7 Senior People Professional Apprenticeship, which includes an MA in HR Management.
Amy completed the programme while working full-time. During her she sought help from the University’s disability support team and was with dyslexia. She has since joined the Disability Apprentice Network and represented disabled apprentices in Westminster roundtable discussions.
Her time at Teesside also included a month-long summer programme in Brazil, adding international experience to a qualification she was completing alongside her career.
Amy said winning the regional award made the hard work worthwhile and used the recognition to highlight the importance of employers, training providers and colleagues creating the conditions for disabled people to flourish.
: Teesside University, 5 August 2026.