Help celebrate Herefordshire’s apprenticeship stars – nominations now open

Do you know an outstanding apprentice, a supportive employer or a mentor who deserves recognition?

Nominations are now open for the Herefordshire Apprenticeship Awards 2027, celebrating the people and organisations helping to develop skills, create opportunities and build Herefordshire’s future workforce.

The awards recognise the achievements of apprentices across the county, alongside the employers and mentors who help them develop their skills and careers.

Led by Herefordshire Growth Hub in partnership with Herefordshire Council and local training organisations, the awards are an opportunity to showcase the difference apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider community.

Award categories

There are six categories for 2027, including three new awards:

  • Apprentice of the Year
  • Apprentice Employer of the Year
  • Mentor of the Year
  • New Apprenticeship Employer of the Year (new for 2027)
  • Future Skills Apprenticeship Award (new for 2027)
  • Employer Mentor of the Year (new for 2027)

Last year’s overall Apprentice of the Year, Archie Ellis of HR Smith Group, encouraged others to get involved.

He said: “It’s crucial that we promote apprenticeships in Herefordshire because we have to keep the skills within the area. My message to any young person considering the apprenticeship route is to just go for it, I have loved it.”

How to nominate:

Nominations are open until 12 noon on Friday 27 November 2026.

The winners will be announced at the Herefordshire Apprenticeship Awards ceremony on Tuesday 9 February 2027, during National Apprenticeship Week.

Whether you’re an employer, colleague, training provider, apprentice or someone who has benefited from the support of an exceptional mentor, now is the time to recognise their achievements.

Businesses can also get involved by sponsoring the awards and helping to celebrate apprenticeship success across Herefordshire.

Find out more, submit a nomination or enquire about sponsorship through the Herefordshire Apprenticeship Awards webpage.

Alternatively, email [email protected]

Help us recognise the people making a difference to Herefordshire’s future workforce.