Nominations are now open for the 2027 Herefordshire Apprenticeship Awards, celebrating the apprentices, employers and mentors helping to build the county’s future workforce.

And if you know an apprentice who deserves their moment in the spotlight – or a business or mentor who is helping them succeed, then it time to get nominating.

The awards were officially launched at The Beefy Boys in Hereford, bringing together apprentices, employers, training providers and partners to celebrate the success of apprenticeships across Herefordshire.

Speaking at the recent apprentice awards launch event, Archie said: “It was an amazing feeling to be recognised in last year’s awards and then to share it with your friends and colleagues.

I was a bit unsure when I first started my apprenticeship but took the decision to fully commit to it and that hard work really paid off, not least with the award.

“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.”

Led by Herefordshire Growth Hub in partnership with Herefordshire Council and local training organisations, the awards shine a light on the individuals and organisations making a difference through apprenticeships.

The awards recognise outstanding apprentices, employers who champion apprenticeship opportunities and mentors who provide exceptional guidance and support.

There are three main award categories, with up to three finalists shortlisted in each:

•  Apprentice of the Year
• Apprentice Employer of the Year
• Mentor of the Year

Three new categories have also been introduced for 2027

• New Apprenticeship Employer of the Year
• Future Skills Apprenticeship Award
• Employer Mentor of the Year

Herefordshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Growth, Councillor Graham Biggs, said:

“Apprenticeships give people the chance to earn while you learn.  For many people it is the best option as employees gain valuable skills and experience while helping local businesses develop the workforce they need.”

“More businesses taking on apprentices as part of their workforce planning, helping people build careers in Herefordshire is one of the ways to create more better paid jobs and support the growth of our local economy .”

“These awards are a great opportunity to celebrate the apprentices, employers, training providers and mentors who are making a real difference across Herefordshire and prove what a difference apprenticeships can make.”

Nominations are open now and close at 12 noon on Friday 27 November 2026. Nominations received after this deadline will not be accepted.

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

The awards are delivered in collaboration with Herefordshire Council, Herefordshire, Ludlow and North Shropshire College, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Group Training Association and Riverside Training.

Businesses can also support the awards by becoming a sponsor and helping to celebrate apprenticeship success across the county.

For more information, to make a nomination or to find out about sponsorship, visit the Herefordshire Apprenticeship Awards webpage or email apprenticeshipawards@herefordshire.gov.uk