The search is on for the Highlands & Islands’ apprenticeship stars – nominate now

With 14 award categories, the awards shine a spotlight on outstanding achievement across the apprenticeship landscape, celebrating the individuals and organisations demonstrating excellence, commitment and impact. The event brings together apprentices at all stages of their journey, alongside businesses and training providers who are investing in skills development and creating long-term career opportunities across the Highlands & Islands.

Inspiring stories

One nomination that demonstrates the type of inspiring stories the awards aim to celebrate is that of Megan Harrison fromSutherland Stepping Stones, nominated for the Modern Apprentice Award, sponsored by headline partner NRS Dounreay.

Megan completed her SVQ Level 3 in Social Services (Children and Young People) in just four and a half months – a qualification that would typically take between 12 and 18 months to complete.

What makes her achievement particularly remarkable is that she completed her apprenticeship while working two jobs and raising her five children.

Despite these considerable commitments, Megan showed exceptional dedication to her studies, using early mornings and late nights to complete her e-portfolio work while continuing to meet the demands of her employment and family life.

Her achievement was not simply about completing the qualification quickly. Megan was able to put the knowledge and skills she developed through her apprenticeship directly into practice, including in areas such as child development, safeguarding and inclusive play. Her assessors and employers saw the positive impact of her development, while the children and families she works with benefit from the skills she is gaining.

Megan’s commitment was also recognised at campus level, where she received an Exceptional Recognition Award. Megan’s story is a great example of the achievements that apprentices, employers and training providers across the Highlands & Islands can put forward for recognition. It demonstrates that a strong nomination can highlight not only academic or workplace achievement, but also determination, personal development, resilience and the positive difference an individual makes to those around them.

Support for the next generation

The importance of apprenticeships to businesses and communities across the region is also reflected in the support the awards receive from employers who see the value of investing in the next generation.

Kieran Graham, Managing Director at Tulloch Homes, said: “With over 20% of our site team in an apprenticeship, we see first-hand the enthusiasm, dedication and fresh perspectives apprentices bring to our industry, and it is important that we celebrate the individuals and businesses helping communities across the Highlands and Islands to thrive. These awards provide that opportunity to recognise the talented apprentices and forward-thinking employers who are helping to build a skilled workforce for the future and Tulloch is proud to support the Highlands and Islands Apprenticeship Awards as Programme Sponsor.”

Dave Main, Managing Director of Springfield North, said: “At Springfield, we understand the value apprenticeships bring, with over 20% of our site team in an apprenticeship, and many members of our longer serving team having started their careers in this way. Recognising and celebrating their ambition and achievements is key to encouraging the next generation and ensuring the industry continues to thrive across Scotland. That’s why we are delighted to support the Highlands and Islands Apprenticeship Awards as Reception Sponsor and to help shine a spotlight on the talented individuals choosing a career in construction.”

We encourage entries from across the region and celebrate the vital role apprenticeships play in strengthening local industries and communities. Winners will be revealed at a prestigious live awards ceremony, bringing together the apprenticeship community for an evening of celebration, networking and recognition.

Businesses supporting apprenticeship schemes are invited to submit nominations and take part in this regional celebration. Together, the awards recognise the positive and lasting impact apprenticeships have on individuals, organisations and the wider economy.

Nominations are open to apprentices themselves, as well as employers, colleges and training providers. Dedicated categories also recognise employers and mentors, allowing businesses to nominate teams and individuals who go above and beyond to support apprentice development.

Entries must be submitted online via www.hiapprenticeshipawards.co.uk.

Guests will be invited to attend the event on Thursday 26 November. Guests are invited to join us from 6.45pm for a welcome drink sponsored by Kingsmills Hotel, providing an excellent opportunity to network with fellow attendees before dinner is served and the award ceremony begins.

To be eligible for apprentice award categories, applicants must live, work or train within the region and have been enrolled on their apprenticeship programme for at least 12 months prior to the event date. Entries may be submitted by the apprentice, employer or training provider.

All submissions are assessed against clear judging criteria, and applicants are encouraged to address each directive in full to support a strong and competitive entry.

Award Categories

Foundation Apprentice

Open to secondary school students who are still in education while completing their National 5s and Highers. Foundation Apprenticeships provide valuable work experience and vocational training at lower SCQF levels, offering an introduction to a chosen industry.

Modern Apprentice, sponsored by NRS Dounreay

Open to apprentices aged 16 while working towards a recognised SVQ qualification.

Graduate Apprentice

Open to apprentices, who have a degree. Studying for the highest SCQF levels, equivalent to a postgraduate degree.

Construction Apprentice

Open to apprentices who work within the construction industry.

Data and Logistics Apprentice

Open to apprentices who work within Data and Logistics Sectors.

Engineering / Manufacturing Apprentice, sponsored by NT Engineering

Open to apprentices who work within the engineering or manufacturing sectors.

Health and Social Care Apprentice

Open to apprentices who work within the health or Social Care service sectors.

Professional Services Apprentice

Open to apprentices who work within professional services.

Technology & Digital Apprentice

Open to apprentices who work within a digital or technology sector.

Mentor

This category is for an individual who has encouraged and inspired apprentices throughout their training programme. Mentors can be the line manager, a training provider or someone that the apprentice works with who has greatly contributed to the individual’s development.

Apprentice Ambassador

This award celebrates individuals that have been outstanding advocates for apprenticeships, raising awareness and championing opportunities for young talent.

SME Employer, Sponsored by RSE Water

Open to businesses, with up to 249 employees, which offer an apprenticeship programme.

Large Employer

Open to businesses, with 250+ employees, which offer an apprenticeship programme.

Training Provider/Programme

Open to colleges, organisations, or businesses that provide the training element of one or more apprenticeship programmes.

Find out more or become a sponsor

For further information not covered on the website, please contact Event Manager Haroldine Lockwood at [email protected]

We look forward to celebrating the remarkable achievements