Isobel Regan, Warwickshire County Council: Apprentice of the Year 2026

When Isobel Regan joined Warwickshire County Council as a Level 4 Improvement Practitioner apprentice, she was new to both the role and the complex environment she was stepping into. What followed was an impressive journey of growth, confidence and achievement that has led to her being named Intec Business Colleges’ Apprentice of the Year 2026.

A fresh start fuelled by determination

After completing her Psychology degree at Liverpool Hope University, Isobel spent time exploring different roles while deciding where she wanted to build her career. It was not a simple path. Ongoing health challenges meant she often felt uncertain about her future. Everything changed once she gained access to life changing medication, which opened the door to opportunities she had once believed were out of reach.

With her confidence restored, Isobel moved to Warwick and focused on finding a career where she could make a positive contribution. The public sector stood out, and when she came across the apprenticeship opportunity at Warwickshire County Council, she knew she had found the right fit. The programme gave her the chance to apply her analytical strengths while learning how to support meaningful organisational change.

Rising to every challenge

From the start, Isobel demonstrated dedication and a strong desire to learn. Although new to improvement methodologies, she quickly grasped complex theories and began applying them to real workplace challenges. Her portfolio was described by her assessor as exemplary. It was detailed, thoughtfully presented and showed a clear understanding of the subject matter.

Balancing full time work with study required focus and resilience. There were times when imposter syndrome appeared, but Isobel tackled every challenge with honesty and determination. She strengthened her time management skills, gained confidence in her abilities and regularly stepped out of her comfort zone, from presenting to senior leaders to facilitating workshops.

Over time she grew into a confident and articulate professional with a clear voice and a strong presence. Her journey culminated in a well-earned Distinction at End Point Assessment, supported by exceptional assessor feedback.

Growing in confidence and capability

Throughout her apprenticeship, Isobel made significant progress in several key areas, including:

• Analytical thinking and problem solving, using methods such as Lean Six Sigma and DMAIC to support improvements
• Communication, presenting data clearly, engaging with stakeholders and leading discussions
• Resilience and self-belief, learning how to manage pressures and challenge self-doubt
• Professional presence, contributing to meetings and demonstrating early leadership skills

Her employer has described her development as remarkable, praising her ability to understand and apply complex concepts and her willingness to take an active role even when she had less experience than others around her.

Making a meaningful impact

Isobel’s apprenticeship helped her uncover a strong interest in business analysis and continuous improvement, and she has already demonstrated the value she brings to the organisation. Her curiosity, determination and confidence have made her a standout apprentice who is eager to learn and contribute.

Her journey shows what can be achieved when talent, hard work and the right support come together. For Intec Business Colleges, Isobel represents everything an apprenticeship should offer. It has helped her unlock her potential and grow into a capable and confident professional with an exciting future ahead.

A well-deserved achievement

Winning Apprentice of the Year 2026 is a true reflection of Isobel’s dedication, resilience and the passion she brings to her work. Her story will inspire learners, colleagues and employers alike, and we are proud to celebrate her success.

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