The long-awaited National Apprenticeship award of 2021 has finally arrived and with it are nine categories available for apprentices, employers, and all “individuals who champion apprentices with passion”. The opening date for applications begins on Monday the 5th of July and ends on the 25th of July which means there is ample time to apply for yourself or on behalf of another. The apprenticeship awards are looking to reward excellence and hear inspirational stories and it is completely free to enter.

Apprentice of the Year

To enter the apprentice of the Year you must be currently undertaking the applicable apprenticeship or must have completed it within the past 12 months. There are three categories to the Apprentice of the Year award. The first being Intermediate Apprentice of the Year of which focuses on those working towards or have completed a level 2, the second being Advanced Apprentice of the Year which looks at those working towards or who have completed a level 3 in the past 12 months, and finally the Higher or Degree Apprentice of the Year for those who are undertaking or have completed a level 4 or higher qualification. The judges for this award are looking for apprentices who can demonstrate the impact and achievement they have had in their workplace.

Rising Star of the Year

The Rising Star of the Year award looks at celebrating the apprentices that have made significant progress in their career to date and have a bright future ahead of them. For this award, you must be undertaking an apprenticeship at any level (or have completed one in the past 24 months) and need to be recommended by their employer. An employer can nominate more than one apprentice for the award.

Employer of the Year

Similarly, to the Apprentice of the year award, the Employer of the year has three categories for SME Employer of the Year (1-249 employees), Large Employer of the Year (250-4999 employees) and finally the Macro Employer of the Year (5000+ employees). This award is open to all types of employers that can showcase the success and contribution that apprenticeships have brought to their organisation. Judges for this award are looking for an organisation that can show they have delivered an excellent apprenticeship program that has benefited all parties. For this application, it is suggested to provide evidence “such as quotes from clients and apprentices, statistics, comparative data and quantifiable information.”

Apprenticeship Champion of the Year

The Apprenticeship Champion of the Year award goes to those who are exceptionally passionate about apprenticeships and those who “champion apprenticeships with enthusiasm”. Unlike some of the others, this award is open to all individuals however the initial nomination must come from a colleague of contact who recognises their credentials; the nominator will then have to write a reference explaining why they think that they deserve the reward. Judges are looking for someone who goes above and beyond to promote apprenticeships as a career choice and how it can boost the success of a business.

How do I find out more?

Everyone at Apprentify is here to help you. That includes putting yourself or a colleague forward for an award. We want our apprentices and employers to have our full support so make sure to get in contact if this is something you would be interested in.