Our event was a fantastic opportunity to recognise and celebrate the accomplishments of our apprentices and the transformative impact apprenticeships have on individuals, employers and the economy!
The Apprenticeship Awards celebrate the dedication and achievements of apprentices across a wide range of industries, including health and science, engineering, construction, hospitality, retail, professional services and digital. The awards also recognise the invaluable support of tutors, mentors, managers and employers who play a key role in guiding and inspiring apprentices on their journey to success.
We received hundreds of nominations this year, making the judging process incredibly tough. A huge congratulations to all our winners and shortlisted nominees. Each nomination is a testament to the hard work, dedication and positive impact these individuals have made. Every one of them deserves recognition for their outstanding contributions and achievements.
The winners for the Apprenticeship Awards 2026, along with their respective awards, are as follows:
Tutor of the Year – Christine Wood
Sponsored by Cema LTD
It was immediately clear to the judges that Christine invests significant time, care, and attention into truly understanding each learner as an individual. What stood out the most was her unwavering commitment to inclusion. Christine’s learner centred approach transforms lives, her colleagues trust her insight, her learners feel genuinely supported, and her impact resonates across the entire learning community
Apprentice Experience of the Year – Jenni Walker
Sponsored by Eastwood Hall
Jenni is the kind of person employers and learners feel they can rely on completely. The judges were impressed with her proactive communication and problem solving mindset, and evidence of how her heartfelt care has built exceptional levels of trust between her employers and Nottingham College. Jenni adapts to individual needs with empathy and professionalism, creating an outstanding apprenticeship experience for all.
SME Employer of the Year – Laser Experience
Sponsored by Reckitt
Laser Experience has shown unwavering commitment to apprenticeships, supporting talent at every level of their organisation. Their generosity towards Nottingham College and their inclusive culture have created a place where apprentices thrive, and stay. Their long‑term investment makes a real difference to the future of skills
Large Employer of the Year – CEMA
Sponsored by Johns of Nottingham
The judges were impressed by CEMA's clear drive towards excellence in their apprenticeship provision, embedding innovative processes and shaping national standards across the sector. The judges also commended the winner’s commitment to outreach, inclusion and community engagement, ensuring apprenticeships are available to diverse range of people.
Apprentice Champion of the Year – Zach Bennett
Sponsored by Steer Automotive
Zach is a passionate ambassador for apprenticeships, using his own experience to inspire others regionally and nationally. He is building a powerful personal brand that champions opportunity, confidence, and growth. Zach leads with authenticity, purpose, and heart, making them an outstanding role model for the next generation.
Automotive Apprentice of the Year – Lucy Bennett
Sponsored by Halfords
Lucy has shone throughout her apprenticeship, earning the deep respect of their peers and mentors through her drive, initiative, and unwavering commitment to learning. Lucy embodies the true spirit of the automotive industry, always pushing herself further and consistently delivering excellence.
Engineering and Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year – Josh Verney
Sponsored by Blackburn Starling
Josh brings an extraordinary engineering mindset to everything he does. Spotting challenges, designing solutions, and implementing improvements that create impact far beyond his role. His creativity and ownership show a maturity well beyond his years. Josh doesn’t just follow the path ahead of him, he built it.
Construction Apprentice of the Year – Liam Kirkham
Sponsored by Oakfield Construction
Liam has been on a real journey, he has developed confidence, courage and growth. From quietly observing at the start to becoming someone others look up to, he has shown what perseverance can achieve. Liam supports his peers, uplifts their environment, and inspires those around him. A true example of transformation in action. Very well deserved.
Health, Science and Care Apprentice of the Year – Kasia Pacey
Sponsored by Cognassist
Kasia's natural compassion has evolved into a powerful professional skillset. Their evidence-based project has improved both operational excellence and patient outcomes, showing deep understanding and maturity. Kasia leads with empathy, capability, and precision. A shining example of the future of health and care.
Hospitality & Retail Apprentice of the Year – Charlotte Clayton
Sponsored by Why Hospitality
Charlotte has shown remarkable resilience, leadership, and adaptability in one of the most fast‑paced sectors. She leads by example, lifts up her peers, and creates a positive, connected learning environment. Charlotte's dedication and calm professionalism set her apart as a true hospitality star.
Professional Services & Digital Apprentice of the Year – Hannah Linney
Sponsored by Rhames
Hannah is known as the reliable heartbeat of her team. Delivering high‑quality work with maturity, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to improvement. She listens, learns and applies feedback with purpose, making her a real role model for apprentices across the sector.
Overall Apprentice of the Year – Liam Kirkham
Sponsored by Lindleys
Liam was commended by the judges for his dedication, craftsmanship, and relentless drive for excellence. He demonstrates focus, resilience, and a “can do” spirit that inspires everyone around him, Liam is a powerful example of what’s possible when talent and the right support come together.
These awards embody the spirit of learning, growth and excellence, celebrating our students’ dedication to their apprenticeships and the meaningful contributions they’re making in their industries.
We would like to thank the event’s generous sponsors, including Trophy Master, Crowne Plaza, One File, CEMA, Eastwood Hall, Reckitt, John’s of Nottingham, Steer Automotive, Halfords, Blackburn Starling, Oakfield Construction, Cognassist, WHY Hospitality, Rhames, Lindleys, and our headline sponsor McCann.
The support and contributions of our sponsors were crucial to the success of the Apprenticeship Awards 2026, and we appreciate their dedication to empowering individuals and fostering workforce growth.
This year’s Apprenticeship Awards has provided a platform to celebrate the exceptional talent and achievements of apprentices, as well as their invaluable contributions to society. We extend our congratulations to all the winners and shortlisted candidates, wishing them continued success in their future endeavours.