North East Apprenticeship Awards return for 2025 - how to enter

The event features 14 award categories designed to celebrate the outstanding apprenticeship network across the region.

This awards attract more than 250 attendees, including apprentices, training providers, and businesses running apprenticeship programs.

Winning an award not only enhances an apprentice's achievements, but also significantly improves their future career prospects.

For employers, receiving recognition underscores their dedication to nurturing young talent and building a skilled workforce.

This annual event highlights the achievements of apprentices and the vital contributions of those supporting them—from training providers to employers.

The campaign encourages entries from across the region, with winners revealed at a prestigious awards ceremony.

Seize the opportunity to be part of this transformative celebration and pay tribute to the outstanding efforts shaping the future of apprenticeships in the North East.

We invite all businesses supporting apprenticeship schemes to submit their nominations and join in the festivities at our annual event. Together, let's applaud the power of apprenticeships and share the positive impact that an apprenticeship can bring.

Nominations can be submitted by the apprentices themselves, employers, colleges and training providers.

There are also categories specifically for employers and mentors, allowing businesses to nominate their teams and trainers. Join us for the 3rd annual Apprenticeship Awards! Register and commence your journey by visiting the event website at www.neapprenticeshipawards.co.uk before the closing date of 8 pm on Wednesday, April 30th.

The grand announcement of winners will take place at the live event on Thursday 26th June 2025, held at St James's Park, Newcastle. Guests are invited to join us from 6:45 pm for a welcome drink, providing an excellent opportunity to network with fellow attendees before dinner is served and the award ceremony begins.

Should you have any inquiries not covered on the website, please contact our friendly event manager [email protected]. We look forward to celebrating the achievements of the North East apprenticeship community with you!

Award Categories

Intermediate Apprentice

Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme 12 months prior to the event date who are studying for a level 2 qualification (equivalent to GCSE passes at grades 4-9).

The entry should be completed by either the apprentice, employer or training provider.

Sponsored by: New Durham College

Advanced Apprentice

Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme 12 months prior to the event date June 19, 2025 who are studying for a level 3 qualification (equivalent to A Level Pass).

The entry should be completed by either the apprentice, employer or training provider.

Higher Apprentice

Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme 12 months prior to the event date June 19, 2025 who are studying for a level 4 or 5 qualification. (equivalent to a foundation degree)

The entry should be completed by either the apprentice, employer or training provider.

Degree Apprentice

Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme 12 months prior to the event date, 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 were enrolled in their programme 12 months prior to the event date June 19, 2025 and work within the construction industry.

The entry should be completed by either the apprentice, employer or training provider.

Engineering/Manufacturing Apprentice

Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme 12 months prior to the event date June 19, 2025 and work within the engineering or manufacturing sectors.

The entry should be completed by either the apprentice, employer or training provider.

Sponsored by Newcastle College

Health and Public Service Apprentice

Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme 12 months prior to the event date June 19, 2025 and work within the health or public service sectors.

The entry should be completed by either the apprentice, employer or training provider.

Professional Services Apprentice

Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme 12 months prior to the event date June 19, 2025 and work within professional services.

The entry should be completed by either the apprentice, employer or training provider.

Technology and Digital Apprentice

Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme 12 months prior to the event date June 19, 2025 and work within a digital or technology sector.

The entry should be completed by either the apprentice, employer or training provider.

SME Employer

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

Sponsored by North East Apprenticeship Ambassador Network

Large Employer

Open to businesses, with 250+ employees, which offer an apprenticeship programme

Apprentice Ambassador

This award celebrates individuals or organisations 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.