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!
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.
