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Apprentice categories for the National Apprenticeship Awards 2017

Updated 28 March 2017

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This page has been withdrawn as it is out of date. You can find the latest information on the National Apprenticeship Awards on the AppAwards website.

Applies to England

1. What category should I enter?

There are 3 categories for individuals who are working towards or have recently completed their apprenticeship, and these are linked to the level of apprenticeship you are completing. An additional category is available for former apprentices or those who champion apprenticeships:

  • intermediate apprentice of the year (level 2)
  • advanced level apprentice of the year (level 3)
  • higher or degree apprentice of the year (level 4 or higher)
  • apprenticeship champion of the year

The apprentice of the year award seeks to acknowledge and celebrate an apprentice’s exceptional contributions to their workplace. To enter an apprentice of the year category you must either be currently undertaking that level or have completed it within the last 12 months.

Stronger entrants for this category have usually completed more than 6 months of their current apprenticeship and are able to provide more evidence to substantiate their answers.

The apprenticeship champion of the year is open to individuals who go above and beyond to champion apprenticeships, this category includes apprentices themselves but is also open to those who have made a significant contribution to apprenticeships, for example, those individuals providing careers guidance and working in schools, colleges and other organisations.’

2. What are the judges looking for?

The National Apprenticeship Awards received over 1,200 applications last year, so you need to make sure your application stands out from the rest.

Judges are looking for exemplars who showcase the difference they have made to the organisation they work in.

They will be using the following criteria to score your application:

  • commitment: demonstrates commitment to your personal development and progression
  • contribution: shows outstanding contribution to your workplace - in particular, areas or projects where you have exceeded expectations
  • success: demonstrates inspirational levels of achievement and attainment

Remember that if you succeed at the regional stage your application will automatically proceed through to the national judging stage where you will be competing with the country’s elite.

3. What are the rewards?

As an apprentice of the year finalist you will enjoy:

  • a top accolade for all the hard work you put into excelling and playing a leading part as an apprentice at your organisation
  • public recognition for your commitment to personal progression through national, regional and sector media channels, including the possibility of radio and television coverage
  • national winners will be announced at a national celebration event
  • the honour of being named the best apprentice in England/apprenticeship champion, and an exemplar for your outstanding achievements