Entries are now open for the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards

Now in its second year, the event features 14 award categories and last year attracted over 190 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 across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

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 4th annual Apprenticeship Awards! Register and commence your journey by visiting the event website at www.dnapprenticeshipawards.co.uk before the closing date of 8 pm on Wednesday, July 30th.

The grand announcement of winners will take place at the live event on Thursday 2nd October 2025, held at The Village Hotel, Nottingham. 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 Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire apprenticeship community with you! Categories include:

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.

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. Sponsored by Nottingham Trent University

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.

Health and Public Service Apprentice, sponsored by The University of Derby: 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.

Large Employer, sponsored by Nottinghamshire County Council: Open to businesses, with 250+ employees, which offer an apprenticeship programme

Apprentice Ambassador, sponsored by East Midlands Apprenticeship Ambassador Network: 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.