Nominations to open for the Greater Lincolnshire Apprenticeship and Skills Awards, following National Apprenticeship Week 2026.
Taking place from 9–15 February, National Apprenticeship Week celebrates the positive impact apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses and the wider economy.
This year, Lincolnshire County Council is highlighting apprenticeships available across the county and encouraging everyone involved in apprenticeships to recognise their achievements.
Nominations for the Greater Lincolnshire Apprenticeship and Skills Awards are opening to apprentices and individuals involved in gaining new skills, who have made significant progress, overcome challenges, or made a real impact during their apprenticeship or training programme. Employers can also be nominated, recognising excellence and innovation in supporting apprentices and delivering strong outcomes.
This year will also see two new categories for the awards. 'Skills Partnership of the Year' looks to celebrate the way two-way partnerships closely collaborate and innovate to deliver outstanding skills development for individuals, who could be apprentices or participants in a Skills Bootcamp programme. And, the 'Rising Star Award' will celebrate the Greater Lincolnshire learner who is showing potential above and beyond what is expected.
Cllr Liam Kelly, Executive Councillor for Growth at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “It was great to see such a wide range of organisations nominated at last year’s awards, from independent shop owners to large national employers like the NHS. It shows that apprenticeships bring value to every kind of workplace, offering fresh perspectives and can-do attitudes that employers value.
“This National Apprenticeship Week, take the extra step to celebrate your apprenticeships by nominating your apprentice, employer or training provider for the Greater Lincolnshire Apprenticeship and Skills Awards.
“There are so many inspiring people and apprenticeship stories out there, and to help celebrate them was a real highlight of my 2025. I’m really looking forward to meeting even more fantastic individuals and forward-thinking organisations at this year’s awards.”
Nominations open on Monday 16 February, with Tuesday 2 April the last date for submissions.
The categories for nominations are:
- Apprentice of the Year
- Apprentice Employer of the Year
- Skills Partnership of the Year
- Rising Star Award
Find out more information and apply at: https://www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/GLASA2026
The Greater Lincolnshire Apprenticeship and Skills Awards are delivered in partnership by Lincolnshire County Council, North Lincolnshire Council, North East Lincolnshire Council and the Lincolnshire Public Service Compact.
Lincolnshire County Council also works to support businesses and organisations across the county to develop apprenticeships that fill local vacancies and build the skills needed for the future workforce.
The Greater Lincolnshire Careers Hub, part of Lincolnshire County Council, plays a key role in this by providing free, expert guidance for apprentices, employers and schools, helping young people and adults explore apprenticeship pathways, access local opportunities, and plan their next steps in work or training. By connecting learners with the right support, the Careers Hub plays a key role in making apprenticeships accessible and successful across the county.
Cllr Kelly continued: “Around 6,000 people start apprenticeships every year in Lincolnshire, both young people and adults. Apprenticeships are a great way to build knowledge, develop expertise and progress a career, while gaining experience and earning a wage.
“As one of the county’s largest employers, we see the benefits of apprenticeships first-hand. We’ve been highly successful in developing our own workforce across council services, from highways and trading standards to social work and administration.”
Apprenticeship opportunities are available across a wide range of industries in Lincolnshire and nationally. To search and apply, visit: www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/