North Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards 2026: Don't miss the deadline for entering the prestigious annual event

The North Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards continue to stand as a leading celebration of the individuals and organisations driving the region’s skills agenda – honouring apprentices, employers and training providers who are playing a vital role in developing the workforce of the future.

With 14 categories, the awards shine a spotlight on outstanding achievement across the apprenticeship landscape, highlighting individuals and organisations that demonstrate excellence, commitment and impact.

The event brings together apprentices at all stages of their journey, alongside businesses and training providers investing in skills development and long-term career opportunities across North Yorkshire.

Winning an award offers apprentices invaluable recognition, boosting confidence, enhancing career progression and showcasing their achievements to future employers.

For businesses and training providers, the awards provide a platform to highlight best practice, celebrate mentoring excellence and demonstrate a commitment to nurturing talent and building a skilled workforce.

An awards spokesperson said: “We are proud to partner with The Principle Trust Children’s Charity this year as our charity partner.

“The charity provides free respite breaks for children across Yorkshire facing adverse childhood experiences like mental health challenges, illness, disability, trauma or hardship. Through its eight respite homes, they offer time to rest, reconnect and create lasting memories, improving well-being and bringing joy to families who need support most.

“Also we would like to welcome Yorkshire Water as one of our sponsors, who will be presenting the Advanced Apprentice of the Year Award.

“Yorkshire Water provides essential water and wastewater services to every corner of the Yorkshire region and plays a key role in the region’s health, well-being and prosperity.”

Last year’s winner of the Advanced Apprentice of the Year Award was Lily Mercer, of North Yorkshire Council.

The spokesperson said: “Lily's journey through her apprenticeship has been truly remarkable. She has demonstrated exceptional dedication and passion. Her commitment to personal and professional growth has set her apart.

“Embracing every challenge, Lily has quickly mastered a range of skills, demonstrating an eagerness to learn and adapt. Her proactive approach not only elevated her own expertise but also positively impacted her colleagues and the overall workplace culture.

“Throughout her apprenticeship, Lily has participated in various projects, showcasing her ability to work collaboratively while also taking the initiative to lead when required. She has received commendations for her creativity and problem-solving skills, becoming a valuable asset to her team.

“Lily's journey reflects resilience, determination and a passion for her field, making her a deserving recipient of the Advanced Apprentice of the Year Award. Her story encourages others to pursue their ambitions with similar enthusiasm and dedication.”

Do you know someone who could be the winner this year?

Nominations are open to apprentices themselves, as well as employers, colleges and training providers. Dedicated categories also recognise employers and mentors, allowing businesses to nominate teams and individuals who go above and beyond to support apprentice development.

Entries must be submitted online via www.nyapprenticeshipawards.co.uk by 8pm on Wednesday, April 15.

The winners will be announced at the live event on Thursday, June 11, held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Harrogate Majestic Hotel and Spa, Harrogate.

Guests are invited to arrive from 6.45pm for a welcome drink sponsored by The DoubleTree Hotel, offering an opportunity to network with fellow attendees before dinner is served and the awards ceremony begins.

To be eligible for apprentice award categories, applicants must live, work or train within the region and have been enrolled on their apprenticeship programme for at least 12 months prior to the event date. Entries may be submitted by the apprentice, employer or training provider.

All submissions are assessed against clear judging criteria, and applicants are encouraged to address each directive in full to support a strong and competitive entry.

For further information or to discuss sponsorship opportunities, please contact event manager Haroldine Lockwood at [email protected]

Award Categories

Intermediate Apprentice – Sponsored by Derwent Training

Open to apprentices who are studying for a level 2 qualification (equivalent to GCSE passes at grades 4-9).

Advanced Apprentice – Sponsored by Yorkshire Water

Open to apprentices who are studying for a level 3 qualification (equivalent to A-level pass).

Higher Apprentice

Open to apprentices who are studying for a level 4 or 5 qualification (equivalent to a Foundation Degree).

Degree Apprentice

Open to apprentices who are studying for a level 6 or above qualification (equivalent to a Bachelor's or Masters Degree). The entry should be completed by either the apprentice, employer or training provider.

Construction Apprentice

Open to apprentices who work within the construction industry.

Engineering/Manufacturing Apprentice – Sponsored by Made Smarter

Open to apprentices who work within the engineering or manufacturing sectors.

Health and Public Service Apprentice

Open to apprentices who work within the health or public service sectors.

Professional Services Apprentice

Open to apprentices who work within professional services.

Technology and Digital Apprentice

Open to apprentices who work within a digital or technology sector.

SME Employer

Open to businesses, with up to 249 employees, which offer an apprenticeship programme.

Large Employer – Sponsored by York St John University

Open to businesses, with more than 250 employees, which offer an apprenticeship programme.

Apprentice Ambassador

This award celebrates individuals that have been outstanding advocates for apprenticeships, raising awareness and championing opportunities for young talent. The entry should be completed by either the apprentice or organisation.

Mentor

This category is for an individual who has encouraged and inspired apprentices throughout their training programme. Mentors can be the line manager, a training provider or someone that the apprentice works with who has greatly contributed to the individual’s development. Entries should be completed by either the apprentice or an individual that has witnessed the impact that the mentor has had on the individual.

Training Provider/Programme

Open to colleges, organisations or businesses that provide the training element of one or more apprenticeship programmes. Nominations can be made either for a specific apprenticeship programme or a provider that offers multiple programmes.