Celebrating Growth and Opportunity During National Apprenticeship Week 2026

National Apprenticeship Week 2026 celebrates the impact apprenticeships have on skills development, career progression, and workforce growth across England. At Intec, we work with employers and learners to deliver high-quality apprenticeship programmes that build confidence, capability, and long-term value in the workplace. This week provides an opportunity to recognise outstanding achievement and share the real impact apprenticeships make.

As we mark our involvement in National Apprenticeship Week 2026, it is the perfect time to reflect on the achievements of our learners, employers, and colleagues. This year, we are proud to recognise five outstanding individuals through our Apprentice of the Year, Higher Apprentice of the Year, Mentor of the Year, and Rising Star awards. Each award showcases the commitment, progression, and impact that apprenticeships create across a wide range of industries, at every stage of a career journey.

“National Apprenticeship Week is about celebrating potential, recognising progress, and showcasing what can be achieved through workplace learning.”

Apprenticeships remain one of the most effective ways for organisations to build a skilled, motivated, and future-ready workforce. Whether upskilling existing team members or recruiting new talent, apprenticeships combine structured learning with practical experience. This enables individuals to develop job-ready skills, strengthen problem-solving abilities, and contribute meaningful value to their roles. Employers consistently tell us that apprentices bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy into their teams, supporting productivity, retention, and sustainable organisational growth. The achievements of this year’s award winners reflect this impact in action.

Award Winner Case Studies

Throughout National Apprenticeship Week 2026, we are sharing the stories behind our award winners. Each case study explores their apprenticeship journey, the skills they have developed, and the positive difference they have made within their organisation.

Isobel Regan, Warwickshire County Council: Apprentice of the Year 2026 | Intec

Bernadette Ryan, British Red Cross: Higher Apprentice of the Year 2026 | Intec

Andrea Jackson, Credit Resource Solutions: Mentor of the Year 2026 | Intec

Evie Kemal, Danbro: Rising Star 2026 | Intec

Joe Flynn, Sefton Metropolitan Borough Council: Rising Star 2026 | Intec

Celebrating Apprentice Achievement

Our Apprentice of the Year award recognises outstanding commitment, growth, and impact in the workplace. This year’s winner demonstrated curiosity, resilience, and a strong willingness to learn, using their apprenticeship to develop confidence and deliver real value within their role.

“This award recognises outstanding commitment, growth, and the real workplace impact that apprenticeships make from day one.”

Progression Through Higher-Level Apprenticeships

Our Higher Apprentice of the Year highlights the transformational opportunities offered through higher-level apprenticeships. These programmes provide clear progression routes, enabling individuals to deepen their expertise, lead projects, and make strategic contributions within their organisations.

“Higher-level apprenticeships create opportunities to lead, specialise, and make meaningful strategic contributions at work.”

Recognising the Power of Mentoring

The Mentor of the Year award celebrates the vital role mentoring plays in successful apprenticeship journeys. Effective mentoring helps learners build confidence, develop skills, and feel supported throughout their programme, while also strengthening learning cultures within organisations.

“Behind every successful apprenticeship is strong mentoring that builds confidence, capability, and a supportive learning culture.”

Rising Stars of the Future

Our Rising Star awards recognise individuals at the early stages of their apprenticeship journey who have shown exceptional potential, enthusiasm, and ambition. These learners represent the future of their industries, bringing fresh ideas and a positive mindset into their workplaces.

“Our Rising Stars highlight the potential, ambition, and fresh perspective that apprentices bring to organisations.”

Looking Ahead to Apprenticeship Updates

National Apprenticeship Week 2026 also aligns with important updates to apprenticeship units, coming into effect from April. These changes are designed to create greater opportunity, improve alignment with industry needs, and make apprenticeships even more accessible for both learners and employers. The updated structure places a stronger focus on real-world capability, ensuring learning is meaningful, measurable, and closely linked to workplace expectations.

We are proud of the positive impact apprenticeships continue to make across the organisations we work with. The success of our award winners is a powerful reminder of the talent, dedication, and potential that exists within every learner. Whether you are looking to strengthen your workforce, develop future leaders, or explore upcoming apprenticeship changes, our team is here to support you in making the most of the opportunities ahead.

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