More than 30 finalists have been announced for the 2026 Worcestershire Apprenticeships Awards.
The awards celebrate outstanding achievement across 10 categories, recognising exceptional apprentices, employers, training providers, schools and ambassadors who contribute to the success of apprenticeships across the county.
Now in its 12th year, the event is organised by Worcestershire Apprenticeships, an initiative led by the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and Worcestershire County Council.
The scheme aims to grow apprenticeship opportunities and address workforce needs across the region.
Councillor Dan Boatright-Greene, cabinet member with responsibility for education, SEND and skills at Worcestershire County Council, said: “I’m really inspired by the strong group of finalists announced for the 2026 Worcestershire Apprenticeships WA Awards.
“Every one of them should be incredibly proud of their achievement.
“When we celebrate apprenticeships, we celebrate more than individual success.
“We’re recognising the employers, schools, training providers, and support networks that help people develop their skills and reach their potential.
“Together, with our amazing WA team, they make apprenticeships a massive success across Worcestershire.
“I wish all our finalists the best of luck and I can’t wait to join them in November to celebrate the outstanding contribution apprenticeships make to our incredible county.”
The 2026 awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, November 26, at West Midlands Safari Park, with more than 300 guests expected to attend.
The evening will be hosted by comedian, broadcaster and television presenter Matt Richardson.
Gary Woodman, chief executive of the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “Apprenticeships play a crucial role in our economy, helping individuals and organisations grow, develop and thrive.
“Events such as this provide an opportunity to celebrate the apprenticeship journey and recognise the dedication, hard work and achievements of everyone involved.”
The awards are divided into three main groups: Apprentice Awards, Employer Awards and Support Awards.
Categories include Intermediate, Advanced, Higher and Degree Level Apprentice of the Year, as well as Micro/Small, Medium and Large Apprenticeship Employer of the Year.
Additional awards recognise the School of the Year, Training Provider of the Year and Apprentice Ambassador of the Year.
The ceremony will conclude with two overall honours: Worcestershire Apprenticeship Employer of the Year, sponsored by Sanctuary, and Worcestershire Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Amada UK Ltd.
The finalists for the 2026 Worcestershire Apprenticeships are:
Intermediate Level Apprentice of the Year
Sponsored by Yamazaki Mazak UK
Advanced Level Apprentice of the Year
Sponsored by Worcester Bosch
Higher Level Apprentice of the Year
Sponsored by Seetec
Degree Level Apprentice of the Year
Sponsored by Platform Housing Group
Employer Awards
Small Apprenticeship Employer of the Year
Sponsored by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
Medium Apprenticeship Employer of the Year
Sponsored by West Midlands Apprenticeship Ambassador Network
Large Apprenticeship Employer of the Year
Sponsored by Kidderminster College
Support Awards
School of the Year
Sponsored by Heart of Worcestershire College
Training Provider of the Year
Sponsored by Barrie Beard Ltd
Apprentice Ambassador of the Year
Sponsored by Worcestershire Training Providers Association