Peterborough Apprenticeship Awards 2026: Celebrate city's best apprentices and training providers

Now in its seventh year, the Peterborough Apprenticeship Awards is the flagship celebration of the people powering the region’s skills pipeline - recognising apprentices, employers and training providers who are shaping the workforce of tomorrow.

With 14 award categories up for grabs, we aim to shine a spotlight on outstanding achievement across the apprenticeship landscape, recognising 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 who are investing in skills development and long-term career opportunities across Peterborough.

Winning an award offers apprentices invaluable recognition, helping to boost confidence, enhance career progression and showcase their achievements to future employers.

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

The awards programme continues to grow year on year, encouraging entries from across the region and celebrating the vital role apprenticeships play in strengthening local industries and communities.

Winners will be revealed at a prestigious live awards ceremony, bringing together the apprenticeship community for an evening of celebration, networking and recognition.

Businesses supporting apprenticeship schemes are invited to submit nominations and take part in this regional celebration.

Together, the awards recognise the positive and lasting impact apprenticeships have on individuals, organisations and the wider economy.

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.

The winners will be announced at the live event on Thursday, September 24th, held at The Holiday Inn Peterborough - West.

Guests are invited to join us from 6:45 pm for a welcome drink sponsored by The Holiday Inn, providing an excellent opportunity to network with fellow attendees before dinner is served and the award ceremony begins.

How can I take part?

Entries must be submitted online via www.peterboroughapprenticeshipawards.co.uk

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]

The awards categories:

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

Advanced Apprentice: 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 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 Baker Perkins: 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: Open to businesses, with 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.