Apprenticeship Awards 2026

The Apprentice Champion Award is to recognise those in the field who support and promote apprenticeships. Awardees could be a sub-contractor, partner, promoter of apprenticeships, an individual who has inspired young people or an apprentice mentor within an organisation. There are no restrictions on who can be nominated.

This award recognises apprentices who have excelled in 2024/2025. We celebrate those who go above and beyond, passionately championing their apprenticeship and leaving a positive impact on their respective industries. Join us in recognising the outstanding achievements of these remarkable individuals.

This award category is split into 6 categories:

• Automotive Apprentice of the Year
• Engineering and Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year
• Hospitality and Retail Apprentice of the Year
• Construction Apprentice of the Year
• Health, Science and Care Apprentice of the Year
• Professional Services and Digital Apprentice of the Year

* Nominees must currently be employed in an apprenticeship or must have completed their apprenticeship in 2024/25.

This award celebrates staff members who contribute to the overall customer experience of apprentices who are not Tutors/Assessors. These staff members work tirelessly in the background to support with aspects such as Account Management, Financials, Administration, Hospitality, or the running of our estates to ensure all apprentices receive the best experience. Nominees for this award always go above and beyond within their roles to ensure learners and employers feel supported, valued and inspired whilst in partnership with Nottingham College. 

*This award is for staff currently employed by Nottingham College. Nominations can be submitted by a colleague, apprentice, or employer representative.

This award celebrates the work of large employers in incorporating apprentices into their workforce development strategy, recognising their value and contribution and demonstrating strong support and mentorship to their apprentice(s). Nominees must have an apprentice currently employed or must have had an apprentice complete their apprenticeship in 2024/25. 

*Nominations can be submitted by the employer or employee of the business, a tutor, an apprentice, or college partner, including another employer. 

This award celebrates the work of SME employers in supporting apprentices. Nominees must have an apprentice currently employed or must have had an apprentice complete their apprenticeship in 2024/2025.

This award celebrates Tutors and Assessors who are committed to providing apprentices with the best industry knowledge and practices. Nominees in this sector always go above and beyond for their apprentices to ensure they feel supported, valued and inspired on their learning journey. 

*This award is for staff currently employed by Nottingham College. Nominations can be submitted by a colleague, apprentice, or employer representative.

This award will select an overall winner from the Industry Apprentice of the Year nominations to be awarded the overall Apprentice of the Year Award.