As we prepare for our 5th Annual Apprenticeship Awards, we are inviting local businesses and organisations to join us in celebrating the outstanding achievements of apprentices, employers and mentors who are making a real difference in the workplace. The awards will take place on 7 May 2027 at the Grand Station, Wolverhampton, bringing together over 200 guests from across the Midlands to recognise excellence in apprenticeships.
Apprentices are the future of our workforce, and these awards shine a spotlight on those who go above and beyond, as well as the employers who champion talent, opportunity and development. By sponsoring the event, your organisation will play a key role in recognising success while raising your profile among employers, apprentices and industry leaders.
We now have just a handful of sponsorship opportunities remaining. Whether you are looking to support the apprenticeship community, increase brand visibility or demonstrate your commitment to developing future talent, this is a fantastic opportunity to get involved.
If you would like to find out more about our remaining sponsorship packages, please contact marketing@junipertraining.co.uk. We would be delighted to welcome you to our milestone 5th Annual Apprenticeship Awards.
Juniper Training is delighted to announce that Anna Merricks has been named a finalist for Apprentice of the Year at the prestigious National NMT Nursery Awards 2026.
The awards celebrate outstanding nursery providers, teams and individuals making a difference within early years education. This year’s winners will be announced on 7 November 2026 at Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge.
Going above and beyond
Throughout her Level 3 Early Years Educator apprenticeship, Anna demonstrates exceptional skills. Firstly, including a high level of commitment, maturity and passion for early years practice. She consistently produced work of a high standard, contributed thoughtfully during masterclasses and reflected openly on how she could continue developing her skills.
Within her setting, Anna has become a highly valued, caring and dedicated member of the team. She consistently puts the needs of children first and uses her understanding of child development to create engaging, nurturing and inclusive experiences.
Anna has also embraced responsibilities beyond those typically expected of an apprentice. These have included running the breakfast club each morning and leading two after-school clubs, providing children with positive, enjoyable and inclusive opportunities.
Helping children find their voices
Anna continues to support her school’s participation in Young Voices, one of the country’s largest school choir concerts.
Anna led after-school rehearsals for approximately 30 children, dedicating her own time to teach them 13 songs and dancing. Her patience, encouragement and enthusiasm helped the children develop their confidence and enjoy the experience.
She also created an event banner, helping to give the children a strong sense of pride and identity. Therefore, giving the children a lifetime memory of the occasion for them and their families.
Making a difference in Uganda
Anna’s commitment to helping children extends far beyond her own setting. She volunteered with the One Love Project in Uganda, driven by her compassion and determination to make a positive difference.
Before travelling, Anna independently wrote to families throughout the school to explain the project and request donations. Her efforts inspired the school community to contribute essential items, including toiletries, clothing, footwear, stationery and children’s football kits.
During the trip, Anna had the opportunity to teach a class at the One Love Project School, putting her early years knowledge and skills into practice in a completely different environment.
Inspiring others through her story
Following her return, Anna shared her experience with more than 200 guests at the Juniper Training Apprenticeship Awards. Despite once experiencing self-doubt, she confidently took to the stage and delivered a speech about her time in Uganda and the difference the experience had made to her personal and professional development.
During the same ceremony, Anna won Juniper Training Early Years Apprentice of the Year. The Juniper Training Apprenticeship Awards recognises outstanding development, dedication and contribution.
A thoroughly deserved finalist
Anna’s apprenticeship journey has been remarkable. She has grown in confidence, embraced leadership responsibilities and developed into a reflective and highly capable early years professional.
Her creativity, kindness and commitment have made a lasting difference to children, families and colleagues. She represents everything apprenticeships can help individuals achieve, and everyone at Juniper Training is incredibly proud of how far she has come.
The winners of the National NMT Nursery Awards 2026 will be announced on 7 November at Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge. We wish Anna and all the inspirational finalists the very best of luck!
James Recognised for Outstanding Resilience, Determination and Commitment to Construction
Juniper Training is proud to announce that one of our learners, James, has become a finalist for the prestigious UK Young Builder of the Year Award.
The award recognises young people who demonstrate exceptional dedication to their chosen career. Above all, James has overcome challenges and made a positive impact within the construction industry. James’s selection as a finalist reflects his remarkable personal growth, commitment to learning, and determination to succeed.
Building a Brighter Future
James’s journey into construction is defined by perseverance and a desire to create a positive future for himself. After engaging with Juniper Training, he rediscovered his confidence, developed valuable skills, and found a passion for the construction industry.
His progression led him to complete a Level 1 Introduction to Construction programme. Before securing an apprenticeship, where he continues to develop industry knowledge, practical skills, and professional experience.
A Passion for Construction
Now working within the roofing and cladding sector, James embraces every opportunity to learn and develop. He enjoys the practical nature of construction, working alongside experienced professionals, and seeing the results of his hard work take shape.
Alongside his apprenticeship, James has earned a range of industry-recognised qualifications and continues to pursue further professional development. His enthusiasm, reliability, and willingness to take on new challenges have earned him praise from colleagues, trainers, and employers alike.
An Inspiration to Others
What makes James’s achievement particularly inspiring is the resilience he has demonstrated throughout his journey. Rather than allowing obstacles to limit his ambitions, he has remained focused on developing his skills, pursuing his goals, and building a successful career.
Firstly, his positive attitude, commitment to learning, and determination to keep moving forward perfectly reflect the qualities celebrated by the UK Young Builder of the Year Award.
Proudly Supporting Future Talent
At Juniper Training, we are passionate about helping learners develop. Therefore, this includes their skills, confidence, and opportunities to achieve their ambitions.
James’s success highlights the life-changing impact that skills training, apprenticeships, and employer partnerships can have. We are incredibly proud of everything he accomplishes and are thrilled to see him on a national stage as a finalist for UK Young Builder of the Year.
Lastly, we woud like to say congratulations, James, and good luck from everyone at Juniper Training.
At Juniper Training, we’re committed to helping employers build skilled, confident teams through high-quality apprenticeship programmes. That’s why we’re excited to introduce two new Level 2 apprenticeships launching this August:
These new programmes provide even more opportunities for employers to recruit new talent, develop existing employees and strengthen their workforce with nationally recognised training.
Why Choose a Level 2 Apprenticeship?
Level 2 apprenticeships are ideal for individuals who are new to a role or looking to build strong foundations in their career. For employers, they offer a cost-effective way to invest in staff development while ensuring employees gain the practical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the workplace.
Whether you’re recruiting someone new or upskilling a current member of your team, apprenticeships combine real-world experience with structured learning, helping employees become more productive and confident from day one.
New for August: Level 2 Administration Assistant
Business administrators are at the heart of every successful organisation. They keep operations running smoothly, support customers and colleagues, and help businesses stay organised and efficient.
Our new Level 2 Administration Assistant Apprenticeship has been designed for employers looking to develop entry-level administrative staff or those taking their first steps into an office-based role.
This apprenticeship is available to individuals aged 16–24, making it an excellent opportunity for employers to invest in the next generation of business professionals.
Learners will develop skills in areas including:
Communication and customer service
Organisation and time management
Business processes and administration
Digital systems and office technology
Teamwork and professionalism
Already delivering our successful Level 3 Business Administrator Apprenticeship, this new Level 2 programme creates a clear progression pathway for learners to continue developing their careers within your business.
New for August: Level 2 Supply Chain Warehouse Operative
Efficient warehouse operations are essential to keeping supply chains moving. Our new Level 2 Supply Chain Warehouse Operative Apprenticeship supports employers across warehousing, logistics, manufacturing and distribution by developing skilled, safety-conscious warehouse professionals.
Throughout the apprenticeship, learners will build knowledge and practical experience in:
Receiving, storing and dispatching goods
Stock control and inventory management
Health and safety procedures
Teamworking and communication
Using warehouse equipment and technology
Maintaining quality and productivity standards
Whether you’re growing your warehouse team or investing in existing employees, this programme helps create a more efficient and capable workforce.
Benefits for Employers
Apprenticeships are about more than gaining qualifications—they’re an investment in your business.
By introducing apprenticeship training into your organisation, you can:
Recruit motivated new talent.
Upskill existing employees with nationally recognised qualifications.
Improve productivity and workplace efficiency.
Increase employee confidence, motivation and retention.
Build future leaders through clear progression opportunities.
Address skills gaps within your organisation.
Financial Incentives Available
Eligible employers could receive up to £6,000 in funding when hiring an apprentice, making it an even more cost-effective way to grow your workforce.
This may include:
£2,000 SME Hiring Incentive
£3,000 Youth Jobs Grant
£1,000 Young Apprentice Payment
Eligibility criteria apply. Funding and incentive schemes are subject to the latest government guidance. You can find out more about employing an apprentice and available support on the GOV.UK website: https://www.gov.uk/employing-an-apprentice.
Our team can also advise you on the funding available and support you through the application process.
Start Building Your Workforce This August
Whether you’re looking to strengthen your office team with a administration assistant or develop skilled staff within your warehouse operations, our new Level 2 apprenticeships offer an excellent opportunity to invest in your people and your business.
Combined with our existing apprenticeship programmes across a range of sectors, we’re proud to support employers across the UK with high-quality training that develops confident, capable employees ready to make a real impact.
Interested in taking on an apprentice or developing your existing workforce?
Get in touch with the Juniper Training team today to discuss how our new Level 2 Business Administrator and Level 2 Supply Chain Warehouse Operative apprenticeships can support your business goals.
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
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.
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 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
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.
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/
