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Sian Frater

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Juniper Training Celebrates Success at the 2026 Apprenticeship Awards

Juniper Training proudly hosted its 4th annual Apprenticeship Awards at The Grand Palace in Wolverhampton, delivering its biggest and most successful celebration to date.

With over 800 learners enrolled on apprenticeship programmes, competition reached an all-time high. The event brought together apprentices, Level 5 graduates, employers, colleagues and partners to recognise outstanding achievements across a wide range of industries.

The evening showcased the transformative impact of apprenticeships, celebrating not only individual success, but the organisations and mentors who support learners every step of the way.

Celebrating Our Level 5 People Professional Graduates

A highlight of the evening was recognising the achievements of Juniper Training’s Level 5 People Professional graduates, who are already making a strong impact within their organisations.

This year’s graduates included:

Teresa Sherriff (GXO)
Matt Wright (GXO)
Alice Gilbert (GXO)
Igne Jasiunaite (Advanced Supply Chain)
Georgia Mae Bourke (GXO)

Award Winners Recognised Across Multiple Sectors

The Apprenticeship Awards celebrated excellence across a variety of sectors, highlighting the incredible talent and dedication of learners across the region.

The evening’s highest honour, Overall Apprentice of the Year, was awarded to Dylan Moody (Longstaffes Flooring Ltd.), whose outstanding performance, 5-star customer reviews and contribution of over £150,000 in additional sales demonstrated the true impact apprentices can have.

Full List of Apprenticeship Award Categories, Finalists and Winners

Business Sector Apprentice of the Year

Finalists:

  • Dylan Moody
  • Megan Whitson
  • Ella Mei-Wilkins
  • Megan Smith
  • Jessica Neal
    Winners: Dylan Moody & Jessica Neal

Recruitment Apprentice of the Year

Finalists:

  • Daniel Cashmore
  • Georgina Winton
  • Shannon Edwards
  • Jamie Nock
    Winner: Georgina Winton

Early Years Apprentice of the Year

Finalists:

  • Grace Ryan
  • Anna Merricks
  • Nia Brown
    Winner: Anna Merricks

Teaching & Education Apprentice of the Year

Finalists:

  • Delena Millard
  • Charlie Hocknull
  • Mulhat Yedale
    Winner: Delena Millard

Roof Slater & Tiler Apprentice of the Year

Finalists:

  • Zachary Birch
  • Tony Perks
  • Harry Mullender
    Winner: Tony Perks

Waterproof Membrane Installer Apprentice of the Year

Finalists:

  • Ellis Todd
  • Fraser Jones
  • Nicholas Hurdman
    Winner: Nicholas Hurdman

Roofer Sheeter & Cladder Apprentice of the Year

Finalists:

  • Ewan Perry
  • George Woodroofe
  • Toby Wilde
    Winner: Toby Wilde

Most Improved Apprentice of the Year

Finalists:

  • Daisy Donnelly
  • Tyler Macdonald
  • Le’Sean Williams
    Winner: Le’Sean Williams

Workplace Mentor of the Year

Finalists:

  • Josh Moore
  • Beth Glazier
  • Kirsty Mills
  • Dan Smith
    Winner: Josh Moore

Small Employer of the Year

Finalists:

  • Bumbles Day Nursery
  • RS Miller Group
  • Bell Lamb and Joynson Solicitors
  • Explorers Childcare
    Winner: Bell Lamb and Joynson Solicitors

Large Employer of the Year

Finalists:

  • Hawkins Group
  • Wincanton
  • Epwin Group
    Winner: Walsall Council

Supporting a Worthwhile Cause

Juniper Training proudly supported Wolverhampton-based charity Sponsored Breaks as the chosen charity partner for the event.

Thanks to the generosity of attendees, over £1,400 was raised on the night through raffle ticket sales and donations, making a meaningful difference to families across the local community.

Thank You to Our Partners

Juniper Training extends its sincere thanks to all sponsors and partners whose support made the event possible.

Sponsorship opportunities for the 2027 Apprenticeship Awards are now open. For more information, please contact marketing@junipertraining.co.uk.

Celebrating Success and Looking Ahead

The 2026 Apprenticeship Awards highlighted the incredible achievements of apprentices, employers and mentors, reinforcing the value of apprenticeships in developing skills, supporting businesses and creating long-term career opportunities.

Juniper Training remains committed to empowering learners and employers through high-quality apprenticeship programmes, and looks forward to celebrating even more success in 2027.

Fraser and Nicholas, BMI Finalists at Juniper Training Apprenticeship Awards

From Apprentices to BMI National Finalists: Fraser and Nicholas Shine in Roofing Industry

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Celebrating Success in Roofing with BMI Finalists

At Juniper Training, we’re proud to celebrate the success of our apprentices and Fraser and Nicholas are no exception.

Recently recognised as finalists in the BMI UK & Ireland Apprentice of the Year competition. Both learners have demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and resilience within the roofing industry.

This prestigious national competition brings together the UK’s most promising apprentices. This is pushing them to showcase not only their technical ability, but also teamwork, communication, and professional skills.

Their recognition comes shortly after the Juniper Training Apprenticeship Awards, in which Nicholas become Waterproof Membrane Installer Apprentice of the Year. Fraser also named as one of our finalists, a fantastic milestone in their journey. A true testament to the high standards both apprentices consistently deliver.

Fraser and Nicholas, BMI Finalists at Juniper Training Apprenticeship Awards
Fraser and Nicholas, BMI Finalists at Juniper Training Apprenticeship Awards

Representing the Future of the Industry

Being named a finalist in the BMI Apprentice of the Year competition is more than recognition, it’s an opportunity.

At Juniper Training, we’ve proudly supported several apprentices who have gone on to win this prestigious competition. In previous years, our apprentices have taken home the £1,000 grand prize. This has gained them national recognition for their talent and dedication.

Fraser and Nicholas now have the chance to follow in their footsteps. We wish them the very best of luck as they head into the 2026 final.

On behalf of everyone at Juniper Training, we’re hoping to see them become our next Apprentice of the Year winners 👏

How Our Apprentices Became Finalists

As part of the nomination process, Fraser and Nicholas demonstrated more than just their technical ability.

The application focused on key areas including how they’ve overcome real on-site challenges, their approach to learning and working safely, their long-term career goals, and their ambition within the industry.

Their responses showcased resilience, strong teamwork, and a commitment to continuous improvement, all of which helped secure their place as BMI Apprentice of the Year finalists.

Fraser Jones - BMI Finalist
Nicholas Hurdman - BMI Finalist

We’re Proud to Support Their Journey

At Juniper Training, we’re committed to supporting apprentices every step of the way and Fraser and Nicholas are perfect examples of what can be achieved through hard work, determination, and the right support network.

We’re incredibly proud of their achievements so far and can’t wait to see what they accomplish next.

To find out more about our roofing provision, click here

Juniper Training Apprenticeship Awards 2026: Celebrating Success

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Juniper Training is proud to host its 4th annual Apprenticeship Awards on Friday 15th May, celebrating the incredible achievements of our apprentices and the employers who support them.

This prestigious event recognises outstanding talent, dedication and success across our apprenticeship programmes, bringing together apprentices, businesses, and colleagues for a truly special evening.

Guests can look forward to a magnificent night of celebration, filled with inspiring stories, well-deserved recognition, plenty of fun, and a few exciting surprises along the way.

As we continue to champion apprenticeships and the impact they have on careers and businesses, this event is a highlight of our year and one we can’t wait to share.

👉 Follow Juniper Training on social media to catch live updates, behind-the-scenes moments and all the highlights from the night.
Instagram // Facebook // LinkedIn // TikTok

Overall apprentice of the Year 2025
Juniper Training Overall Apprentice of the Year 2025

A Night to Recognise Exceptional Talent

Our Apprenticeship Awards are more than just an event—they are a celebration of the incredible journeys our apprentices take. From overcoming challenges to excelling in their roles, each nominee and winner represents the very best of what apprenticeships can achieve.

We will be celebrating not only our talented apprentices, but also the employers and partners who champion them, providing guidance, opportunity and unwavering support throughout their journey.

Juniper Training Apprenticeship Awards 2025 - Board of Directors
Juniper Training Apprenticeship Awards 2025 – Board of Directors

Looking to Hire an Apprentice?

If you’re looking to grow your team and invest in future talent, taking on an apprentice could be the perfect solution. Apprentices bring fresh ideas, enthusiasm and valuable skills to your business while learning on the job.

Find out more by visiting: https://www.junipertraining.co.uk/hire-an-apprentice/ or email findmeanapprenticeship@junipertraining.co.uk to speak to our team.

Open Days & Taster Days This May at Juniper Training

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Looking for your next step in education or training? Juniper Training is hosting a series of Open Days and Taster Days throughout May, giving young people, parents and carers the chance to explore courses, meet our teams and experience learning at our centres.

These events are ideal if you’re considering apprenticeships, pre‑apprenticeship programmes or study programmes, and want to understand your options before making a decision.

Leeds Open Day

Friday 1 May, 9:00am–12:00pm
Thursday 28 May, 10:00am–2:00pm
leeds@junipertraining.co.uk
Find out more about our Leeds Juniper Training centre here

Aldridge Taster Day

Tuesday 26 May, 10:00am–12:00pm
louise.downey@junipertraining.co.uk
Find out more about our Aldridge Juniper Training Centre here

Derby Open Day

Wednesday 27 May, 10:00am–2:30pm
dylan.oates@junipertraining.co.uk
Find out more about our Derby Juniper Training centre here

Telford Open Day

Wednesday 27 May, 10:00am–12:00pm and 12:00pm-2:00pm
enquiries@junipertraining.co.uk
Find out more about our Telford Juniper Training centre here

Walsall Taster Day

Wednesday 27 May
Taster Day for our Preperation for Success programme
Sessions available: 10:00am–12:00pm and 1:00pm–3:00pm
ashley.smith@junipertraining.co.uk
Find out more about our Walsall Juniper Training Centre here

Waterfront, Brierley Hill Taster Day

Tuesday 26 May
Taster Day for our Preparation for Success programme
Sessions available: 10:00am–12:00pm and 1:00pm–3:00pm
regan.pinches@junipertraining.co.uk
Find out more about our Waterfront Juniper Training Centre here

Wolverhampton Open Day

Wednesday 27 May, 10:00am–2:00pm
dianne.rudge@junipertraining.co.uk
Find out more about our Waterfront Juniper Training Centre here

What’s the Difference Between an Open Day and a Taster Day?

Open Days provide a full overview of Juniper Training. You’ll tour the centre, meet tutors and support staff, and learn more about available courses, entry requirements and progression routes.

Taster Days offer a more hands‑on experience. You’ll take part in activities linked to specific programmes, meet current learners and get a feel for what studying with us is really like.

Parents and carers are welcome at all events, with staff available to discuss support, wellbeing, safeguarding and next steps.

Book Your Place

Places can be limited, so early booking is recommended.
To book your place or find out more, please contact enquiries@junipertraining.co.uk

Exciting News! Applications Now Open for Sponsoring the Apprenticeship Awards 2026

We’re thrilled to announce that Juniper Training’s 4th Annual Apprenticeship Awards will take place on 15th May 2026 at the Grand Palace, Wolverhampton.

This glamorous evening will honour the achievements of apprentices and the employers who have supported them, with over 200 guests and VIPs expected to attend. The evening includes a welcome reception, a three-course dinner, an awards ceremony, and live entertainment.

Sponsorship Opportunities:

  • 15 sponsorships available – one sponsor per award (first come, first served)
  • 2 Premier Packages – exclusive benefits for top sponsors
  • 1 Welcome Package – sponsor the welcome drinks reception

Sponsorship Packages:

  • Standard Package (£500):
    • 2 tickets to the awards
    • Three-course meal
    • Sponsor and present an award
    • Promotion before, during, and after the event
  • Welcome Package – (£500):
    • 2 tickets to the awards
    • Three-course meal
    • Sponsor the welcome drinks reception (only 1 available)
    • Advertising at the networking event
    • Promotion before, during, and after the event
  • Premium Package – (£1,200):
    • 10 tickets and your own table
    • Three-course meal
    • Sponsor and present an award (only 2 available)
    • Promotion before, during, and after the event
Juniper Training Apprenticeship Awards 2025
Juniper Training Apprenticeship Awards 2025

Award Categories Include:

  • Apprentice Awards: Early Years, Business Sector, Teaching & Education, Recruitment, Roof Slater & Tiler, Waterproof Membranes Installer, Roof Sheeter & Cladder, Most Improved Apprentice, Overall Apprentice of the Year
  • Employer Awards: Small Employer, Large Employer, Workplace Mentor of the Year

Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact: Sian.Frater@junipertraining.co.uk

Join us for a night of celebration, networking, and recognition – let’s make a difference together!

Overall apprentice of the Year 2025
Juniper Training Overall Apprentice of the Year 2025
Gym Session with Brierley Hill SEND Learners

Sweat, Support & SENDsational Gains!

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As part of their Personal Growth and Wellbeing unit on the BTEC programme, our SEND students recently participated in a fantastic gym session. This was also supported by two amazing personal trainers at PureGym Brierley Hill.

Additionally, the group engaged in a high-energy workout session that included:

  • Cardio and boxing rounds
  • Weighted arm and leg exercises
  • Core strength training

This experience really challenged the students and pushed them beyond their comfort zones. The results were inspiring! The enthusiasm, motivation, also the resilience they showed were incredible. It was clear to see how much confidence they gained throughout the session.

The personal trainers were brilliant because not only did they tailor the exercises to suit the group’s needs, but they also encouraged each student to reach their full potential. Their positive attitude and encouragement made all the difference.

Finally, after the workout, the students were treated to a guided tour of the gym, and during the visit, were generously gifted free passes to return. We’re thrilled to report that some students have already gone back independently. A real testament to how much they enjoyed and benefited from the experience.

A huge thank you to the team at PureGym Brierley Hill for making this opportunity possible and for helping our young people build confidence, resilience, and a love for fitness. You can find out more about PureGym at Brierley Hill here – https://www.puregym.com/gyms/brierley-hill/

Join us for A Night of Mystery - all for charity!

Join us for A Night of Mystery – all for charity!

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Join us at A Night of Mystery Charity Event, an unforgettable evening of mystery, a marvelous menu, and murder.

This night is all in support of the One Love Project, helping provide education for children in Uganda.

📅 Saturday 13th September 2025
📍 The Premier Suite, Cannock, WS11 1BJ

🕡 Arrival from 6:30 PM
💄 Drag Murder Mystery begins at 7:30 PM
🍽️ Two-course dinner served at 8:00 PM
🎧 DJ & dancing ’til late
👗 Dress code: smart/casual

You’ll be able to enjoy this fantastic evening with surprises along the way!

🎟️ Tickets: £49.50
Includes dinner, entertainment, and a night to remember!


📩 Book now — tickets are limited and sold on a first come, first served basis.

Email: hr@junipertraining.co.uk or message Carla Emms on LinkedIn to get your tickets now – without a booking fee!

Let’s come together for a great cause and an even greater night. 💛

Murder Mystery event at The Premier Suite - 13 September 2025

Juniper Training Brand-New Centre in Leeds is Officially Open!

We’re officially open in Leeds!

On 3rd June 2025, we proudly opened the doors to our brand-new Juniper Training Centre in Leeds. We have a brand-new opportunity for helping school leavers take their first steps into the world of work.

A huge thank you to Deputy Mayor Cllr Barry Anderson, who officially opened the centre and shared, “Today marks a significant milestone, not only for Juniper Training, but for the entire community of Leeds.”

This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible dedication of Lisa Hartley and Paul Taylor, who worked tirelessly to bring our vision to life.

We were honoured to celebrate the launch with partners and friends from South Leeds Life, Pathways, East SILC, Hamara, Leeds City College, Forging Futures, Employment and Skills Leeds, WYLP, Cockburn John Charles Academy and Leeds College of Building. Your continued support means everything to us.

Our CEO, Lesley Holland MA (HRM),Chartered MCIPD, was joined by our amazing colleagues Tara Hughes, Sam Broomhall, Michelle Roberts, Jon Eagle, and Tina Lockley.

As Lesley said, “We’re very much looking forward to a new year supporting the young people of Leeds in their future careers.”

Here’s to a future full of opportunities, growth, and success in Leeds!✨