Nominations are now open to find those outstanding apprentices,
employers and training providers who are shaping the future of
our apprenticeship landscape.
The Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards recognise apprentices,
their mentors, employers and training organisations who have
demonstrated exceptional progress as well as personal achievement
and commitment.
Launching the awards Economy Minister Dr said:
“The Apprenticeship Awards 2026 categories will highlight the
outstanding achievements of apprentices, the invaluable support
of employers and learning providers, and the essential role of
apprenticeships in supporting my economic vision.
“I encourage everyone involved in apprenticeships to participate
in this year's awards. Your stories of success can inspire others
to embark on this rewarding career path and contribute to our
region's economic development.”
There are seven award categories for 2026:
- Apprentice of the Year (Levels 2-3)
- Higher Level Apprentice of the Year (Level 4+)
- Public Sector Apprentice of the Year
- Mentor of the Year
- Large Employer in partnership with a Training Provider
- SME in partnership with their Training Provider
- Public Sector Employer in partnership with a Training
Provider
The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Friday 24 October
2025.
More information, including full details on application criteria
for each of the awards, along with how to apply, can be obtained
from the Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards page on the
Department's website at https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/articles/northern-ireland-apprenticeship-awards.
