For 2027 we have introduced two award categories.
Employer Mentor of the Year
This award recognises and celebrates exceptional workplace mentors who play a vital role in supporting, developing and inspiring apprentices.
It honours individuals who go above and beyond to help apprentices build their skills, confidence and professional experience, making a significant contribution to their success and career development.
Eligibility criteria
Nominees must be currently employed by an organisation in Herefordshire and have provided mentoring, supervision or direct support to an apprentice during the award period.
What the entry should demonstrate
This category is for an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to an apprentice's development through exceptional mentoring, guidance and encouragement.
The award recognises mentors who are committed to helping apprentices succeed, creating a positive environment and providing the support needed for apprentices to develop personally and professionally.
What the judges are looking for
Judges are looking for mentors who demonstrate excellence through:
- Providing exceptional guidance, encouragement and support throughout the apprenticeship journey
- Helping apprentices develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to succeed in their role and future career
- Creating a positive, inclusive and supportive working environment where apprentices can thrive
- Supporting apprentices to overcome challenges, build confidence and develop resilience
- Acting as a positive role model and ambassador for apprenticeships
- Encouraging apprentices to take on new responsibilities, broaden their experience and achieve their full potential
- Working effectively with training providers and colleagues to support apprentice progress and achievement
- Showing commitment to developing future talent and fostering a culture of learning within the workplace
Nominations should provide clear examples of how the nominee has gone above and beyond to support an apprentice or apprentices and the positive difference they have made.
Apprenticeship Tutor/Assessor of the Year
This award recognises and celebrates tutors, assessors or mentors/coaches who go above and beyond to support apprentices and ensure they experience the best start to their career.
Eligibility criteria
The nominee needs to be currently employed and working as a tutor, assessor or mentor/coach supporting Herefordshire apprentices.
What the entry should demonstrate
This category is for an individual who has consistently encouraged, inspired and supported apprentices throughout their apprenticeship journey.
The award is for someone who goes above and beyond to ensure apprentices feel valued, motivated and empowered to succeed.
What the judges are looking for
Judges are looking for individuals who demonstrate excellence in supporting apprentices through:
- Providing outstanding guidance, coaching and mentoring throughout the apprenticeship programme
- Inspiring apprentices to achieve their full potential and exceed expectations
- Creating a positive and supportive learning environment where apprentices feel valued, respected and encouraged
- Supporting apprentices to overcome barriers and challenges, helping them to develop resilience and confidence
- Demonstrating innovation and creativity in their approach to teaching, assessing or mentoring
- Delivering outcomes, including apprentice achievement, progression and personal development
- Acting as a role model and champion for apprenticeships
Nominations should provide clear examples of how the nominee has gone above and beyond to support apprentices and the positive difference they have made.
Wherever possible, applications should include evidence of the nominee's impact, including testimonials, apprentice achievements, progression outcomes and examples of exceptional support, guidance or mentoring.
Nominations
Nominations will open shortly and will close at 12 noon on Tuesday 3 November 2026 (applications received after this deadline will not be accepted).