West Thames College’s collaboration with HBC Logistics and the Institute of Couriers has been recognised at the National Courier Awards 2026, celebrating an innovative approach to workplace learning that achieved a 100% success rate for apprentices.
The achievement was celebrated at the 30th National Courier Awards on Tuesday 27 October, where West Thames College Principal Marta Gajewska and HBC Logistics Managing Director Ben Weldon took to the stage in recognition of their contribution to developing the next generation of transport and logistics professionals.
The event, organised by the Institute of Couriers, brought together leading figures from across the express delivery and logistics sector, alongside government representatives, educational institutions and industry partners. Minister Seema Malhotra, MP for Feltham and Heston, and Professor Peter John CBE, Vice-Chancellor of the University of West London, were among those presenting awards during the evening.
A workplace approach delivering exceptional results
The recognition celebrates the collaboration between West Thames College and HBC Logistics to deliver transport and logistics training that meets the needs of people working on the frontline of the industry.
Rather than relying on conventional online learning, the programme was designed around apprentices’ working environments. A tailored, offline portfolio workbook enabled candidates to develop and demonstrate their knowledge through practical, on-the-job learning.
The 12-month programme, assessed last year, achieved a 100% success rate, with every candidate successfully passing the course.
The nomination highlighted several strengths of the partnership, including its innovative delivery model, close collaboration between education and industry, and the removal of financial barriers for apprentices. Training was funded through the Apprenticeship Levy, meaning candidates did not incur the cost of the programme.
The achievement demonstrates how further education and employer partnerships can deliver effective, accessible training while helping businesses address skills needs in West London’s important transport and logistics sector.
Building the next generation of logistics professionals
West Thames College, an Ofsted-rated Outstanding college, continues to work with employers and industry partners to create opportunities for learners to develop the knowledge and skills required by the workplace.
The success of the HBC Logistics programme highlights the value of adapting training to the realities of the job, supporting employees to gain recognised qualifications while continuing to work.
The National Courier Awards marked their 30th anniversary in 2026, bringing together an exceptionally broad mix of small, regional and national express delivery companies. The event also celebrated achievements across the industry, from apprenticeships and professional development to the first graduates of the Express Manager BSc honours degree.
For West Thames College and HBC Logistics, the 100% candidate success rate represents a significant milestone in their shared commitment to developing skilled logistics professionals and strengthening the sector’s future workforce.
Next week, West Thames College is launching its 2026 Transport + Logistics Skills Hub initiative to help connect local people with opportunities in one of the region’s key industries.
Find out more about the Transport + Logistics Skills Hub here.
