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.
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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
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.
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
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
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
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 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.
The Juniper Training Apprenticeship Awards 2025 celebrated the achievements of apprentices, mentors, and employers, with over 200 attendees including MP Warinder Juss. The evening honoured outstanding talent and raised funds for the One Love Project Uganda.
The Juniper Training Apprenticeship Awards 2025 took place on Friday 9th May and brought together over 200 attendees—including apprentices, employers, mentors, sponsors, and distinguished guests—to celebrate the incredible achievements of our apprentices and the teams who support them.
We were honoured to welcome MP Warinder Juss, who not only attended the evening but also took to the stage to announce our prestigious Overall Apprentice of the Year award. His presence, along with representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, AELP, and other key partners, helped make the event a true celebration of partnership, progression, and potential.
Recognising Outstanding Talent
This year’s finalists represented some of the most hardworking, resilient, and dedicated individuals across our apprenticeship programmes. Each nominee had a unique story of progress, impact, and personal growth—many overcoming significant challenges to achieve excellence in their field.
Among them, Aaron Boylin from Top Tubes stood out not only as the Business Sector Apprentice of the Year but also as our Overall Apprentice of the Year, announced by MP Warinder Juss. Aaron’s professionalism, drive, and consistent commitment made him a standout example of what apprenticeships are all about.
Other standout winners included:
Bradley Dutton, crowned Recruitment Apprentice of the Year for his drive and success at Extra Recruitment.
Olivia Thompson from The Wonder Years Day Nursery, recognised as Early Years Apprentice of the Year for her nurturing spirit and dedication.
Chloe Williamson from Old Hall School, who took home Teaching & Education Apprentice of the Year for her incredible impact in the classroom.
Callum Worgan of DH Roofing, who won Roofer Apprentice of the Year for his skill and commitment to the trade.
Sophie Beddow from Crowmoor Nursery, named Most Improved Apprentice of the Year for her exceptional personal growth and resilience.
Celebrating Employers and Mentors
Alongside our apprentices, we proudly recognised the employers and mentors who make these journeys possible.
RLW Roofing was awarded Small Employer of the Year, and Phoenix Consortia took home the Large Employer of the Year title—both recognised for their unwavering commitment to creating opportunity-rich, supportive environments.
In the Workplace Mentor of the Year category, Kelly Thornton from Shining Stars Nursery was honoured for her invaluable support and guidance, empowering apprentices to reach their full potential.
Powered by Partnerships
Our awards wouldn’t be possible without the support of our incredible sponsors. A heartfelt thank you to:
Met Recruitment – Business Sector Award
Specsavers – Recruitment Award
Highfield – Early Years Award
NOCN Group – Teaching & Education Award
Sika – Roofing Award
Jerroms – Most Improved Award
BCRS Business Loans – Small Employer Award
FREETHS – Large Employer Award
Lloyds Bank – Workplace Mentor Award
OBC Scratchings – Logistics & Manufacturing Award
Your backing makes it possible to spotlight and reward the life-changing work happening within apprenticeships.
Supporting a Greater Cause
The evening was also an opportunity to give back. We’re proud to share that funds raised on the night will go toward the One Love Project Uganda—supporting vulnerable communities through education, training, and essential resources. Thank you to everyone who donated and contributed to such an important cause.
The evening was more than an awards ceremony, it was a celebration of potential, transformation and the power of high-quality apprenticeship training.
At Juniper, we are proud to play a part in shaping futures and building skills that last a lifetime. To all of our winners, finalists, mentors, employers, and partners—thank you for making this year’s awards such a powerful reflection of what’s possible.
Here’s to another year of growth, opportunity and success!
Explore our new training centre in Leeds and take the first step towards your career success with expert-led courses in Maths, English, Workskills, and more!
We’re excited to announce the opening of our Juniper Training Leeds Centre, designed to help young people aged 16-18 (up to 25 with an EHCP) to build the skills they need to succeed in their careers. Situated at Unit 4, Meadow Court, Millshaw, Leeds, LS11 8LZ, the centre offers a variety of courses, including Maths and English, Workskills, Work Experience, and more.
At the Juniper Training Leeds Centre, we are committed to providing learners with the support and guidance to reach their full potential. Whether you’re looking to enhance your qualifications or gain hands-on experience, we have the right course for you.
Our new centre has facilities and classrooms, all designed to create an engaging and effective learning environment. The Juniper Training Leeds Centre is perfect for anyone seeking to upskill, whether you’re starting your career, changing fields, or looking for more opportunities.
Our expert trainers are here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you gain the skills and confidence to succeed in the workplace.
Opening Soon – Monday, 27th January! To celebrate, we’re holding Open Days on 28th, 29th, and 30th January, from 10am to 2pm. This is a great opportunity to meet our team, tour the centre, and discover more about the courses we offer. Book your place today: Register Here.
We can’t wait to welcome you to the Juniper Training Leeds Centre and help you take the next step in your career!
At Juniper Training, we believe in the power of education to transform lives. Our new Leeds centre is the perfect place to start or further your journey, and we can’t wait to see you there. To secure your place at our new centre in Leeds or to find out more, visit: https://www.junipertraining.co.uk/leeds/
We’re proud to sponsor the One Love Project, supporting education and providing vital resources to over 220 children in Uganda. With facilities offering safety, stability, and learning opportunities, we’re committed to empowering young lives and building a brighter future together.
We’re thrilled to announce that Juniper Sponsors One Love Project in Uganda! This incredible initiative supports a local school, providing essential resources and opportunities for both students and teachers in an area where access to education is limited.
Over the past five years, generous donations and dedicated volunteers have helped build the school, boarding facilities, and a Special Needs facility. The school now offers life-changing education to over 220 children, many of whom would otherwise have no access to learning.
The boarding facilities provide a safe haven for homeless and orphaned children, giving them stability and support. As many of the children supported by the One Love Project are orphaned, they rely on the school not just for an education but as a secure, nurturing home.
In August, our CEO, Lesley Holland, visited Uganda to witness firsthand the remarkable work being done. Inspired by the experience, we’re excited to announce that next year we will be taking 14 of our own students to Uganda. This transformative trip will allow our students to engage directly with the project, broaden their global perspective, and see how education can truly change lives.
Education drives positive change, and Juniper Sponsors One Love Project to create a profound impact on young lives. We’re also assisting with fundraising efforts and providing opportunities to sponsor individual pupils at the school to ensure more children receive quality education, while fostering stronger ties between Juniper and the Ugandan community.
At our recent Staff Conference, staff were deeply moved upon hearing a heartfelt message of thanks from the Ugandan students, sent to the entire Juniper team. We raised £1,630 by raffling the Prague break.
The One Love Project aligns perfectly with Juniper’s values, and we’re honoured to support the amazing work being done in Uganda. Juniper Sponsors One Love Project because we believe that together, we can help build a brighter future.
We recently held our very first Apprenticeship Awards on Friday 12th May. We celebrated employers, Apprentices and Juniper Staff. We had over 300 nominations and had to shortlist 3 finalist for each category. We held the Awards at Walsall FC where all finalists, employers we work with, Mayor’s, Councillors & Juniper staff came to celebrate and enjoyed a complimentary 3 course meal, awards ceremony, Raffle Prizes & Entertainment!
Apprentice of the Year –
Business Sector – Darcie Wilkins from Plastribution
Recruitment Sector – Adam Baker from PSR Solutions
Early Years, Teaching & Education Sector– Fatemah Bibi from Beeches Day Nursery
Construction & Logistics Sector – Jake Keefe from Sealco International
Customer Service & HR – Charlotte Berry from SIPS Education
Overall Apprenticeship of the year –
Charlotte Berry from SIPS Education
Employer of the Year
Small Employer – Honeybuns Day Nursery
Large Employer – Walsall Council
Juniper’s Apprenticeship Ambassador of the Year
Dean Smith – Tutor & Skills coach for Roofing
On the evening we also raised money for Memusi Foundation who work primarily in Magadi, in Kajiado County. Their work is split into a number of areas; 💛 Building their own quality schools 💛 Providing support for schools across the Magadi Ward to enhance education standards 💛 Using their own research and programme output to influence change in Education in Kenya.
We raised a total of £539.05 on the evening for Memusi.
According to a new report, two in three (65.6 percent) candidates are actively looking for new employment as a result of being “unmotivated” in their current positions. This is because some employees claim that additional training opportunities would prevent them from leaving a job.
Aspire’s survey of over 900 job seekers also found that 77% of employees have applied for a new position while they are employed, and 62% of these employees have interviewed for a new position.
However, 44% of respondents stated that they would stay motivated and not leave if there were more opportunities for training and development.
Consequently, People Management inquires with recruiters and training specialists regarding the legitimacy of L&D’s role in employee motivation and retention.
Can learning halt someone’s departure? In addition, the Aspire study reveals that half of employees (52.2%) want regular pay reviews, 43.5 percent want more benefits like more annual leave, and 42.3 percent would continue with more flexible working arrangements.
Therefore, would excellent opportunities for skill development be sufficient to entice someone to remain? Yes, in some ways, but if anyone wants to leave, they will; However, the more significant query is, “Why are they going?” Is it about the current opportunities in L&D, or are they just trying to switch careers?
According to a new report, two in three (65.6 percent) candidates are actively looking for new employment as a result of being “unmotivated” in their current positions.
This is because some employees claim that additional training opportunities would prevent them from leaving a job.
Aspire’s survey of over 900 job seekers also found that 77% of employees have applied for a new position while they are employed, and 62% of these employees have interviewed for a new position.
However, 44% of respondents stated that they would stay motivated and not leave if there were more opportunities for training and development.
Consequently, People Management inquires with recruiters and training specialists regarding the legitimacy of L&D’s role in employee motivation and retention.
Can learning halt someone’s departure? In addition, the Aspire study reveals that half of employees (52.2%) want regular pay reviews, 43.5 percent want more benefits like more annual leave, and 42.3 percent would continue with more flexible working arrangements.
Therefore, would excellent opportunities for skill development be sufficient to entice someone to remain? Yes, in some ways, but if anyone wants to leave, they will; However, the more significant query is, “Why are they going?” Is it about the current opportunities in L&D, or are they just trying to switch careers?
