West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards 2026: Here are all the winners at this year's prestigious event

Hundreds of guests gathered for the annual event, at the Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford, where they were welcomed with a drinks reception kindly sponsored by the hotel, followed by a three-course meal and the prestigious awards ceremony, which saw prizes handed out in 14 categories.

The awards serve as a platform to showcase the outstanding contributions of apprentices, employers and training providers across West Yorkshire, recognising the vital role they play in developing future talent and supporting the region’s economy.

An awards spokesperson said: “Apprentices prove that it is possible to rise to the top, driving change and innovation in their workplaces while making significant contributions to the local economy.

“This celebration marks the achievements of a generation that is breaking barriers, investing in themselves and playing a vital role in regional growth.

“We thank everyone who supports these rising stars, and to those embracing apprenticeships, for their contributions benefit us all.

“A special thank you to our esteemed panel of judges, comprising industry experts, who diligently reviewed every nomination to determine this year’s finalists and eventual winners. The judging process was meticulous, reflecting the high calibre of submissions received across the region.”

This year’s judging panel included:

Emma Pearmaine, managing director - Ridley and Hall Legal Limited.

Andy Clarke, head of strategic partnerships - Ahead Partnership.

Hannah Brown, degree apprentice environmental practice - Mott Macdonald Ltd.

Elizabeth Mills, senior university teacher, SFHEA - School of Allied Health Professions, Pharmacy, Nursing and Midwifery.

Brandon Jones, head of external relations - First Bus.

Laura Collins, Iconic Media Group editor in chief (West and North Yorkshire), said: “This annual event, hosted by the Yorkshire Evening Post in partnership with the Wakefield Express and Halifax Courier, recognises the vital role apprenticeships play in bridging the gap between education and the world of work.

“Tonight we celebrate something powerful. Potential turned into progress.

“Apprenticeships don’t just build careers – they build confidence, communities and the future.

“Every challenge faced, every skill mastered and every qualification earned represents hard work and commitment, but apprentices never succeed alone.

“Behind every successful apprentice is an employer willing to invest in potential and a training provider dedicated to guiding, teaching and inspiring the next generation.

“Together, you are creating pathways that transform lives, strengthen businesses and shape the future of our economy.

“Everyone here in this room is a shining example of how you contribute to this and you should be rightly proud of your accomplishments.”

Simon Hill, managing director at headline partner YPO, said: “YPO are delighted to be the headline sponsor for this year’s West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards, celebrating outstanding talent and ambition shown by apprentices across the region.

“At YPO, we consider our apprenticeship framework essential to our organisation’s success. We aim to empower people by creating paid opportunities and providing hands-on industry experience while they achieve relevant qualifications.

“By supporting this prestigious event, we demonstrate our ongoing commitment to education, strengthening career pathways and helping organisations across our region build a skilled and confident workforce.”

Hosted by award-winning radio presenter Rich Williams, the event raised £2,490 for charity partner Yorkshire Ambulance Service Charity via a raffle on the night.

The charity is dedicated to supporting the work of Yorkshire Ambulance Service, the communities it serves and NHS ambulance staff and volunteers.

Here are all the winners at this year’s event.

For more information, visit https://www.wyapprenticeshipawards.co.uk/