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!
New Centre Expands Opportunities for Learners Across Leicester
Juniper Training is delighted to announce the opening of its brand-new training centre in Leicester. The centre is located at 34 Pocklingtons Walk, Leicester LE1 6BU.
The new facility marks an exciting milestone for Juniper Training. The organisation continues to expand its reach and provide more opportunities for learners across the region.
Situated in the heart of Leicester, Juniper Training continues to support its learners on their journey. The provision will help towards employment, further education, and career success.
Supporting More Learners in Leicester
As learner demand continues to grow, the new Leicester centre will allow Juniper Training to support even more individuals. Above all, looking to develop their skills and future career prospects.
The centre will deliver both the Pre-Apprenticeship Study Programme and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) programmes. Therefore, providing a diverse range of learning opportunities for young people in Leicester.
The Pre-Apprenticeship Study Programme helps learners build essential employability skills, gain valuable work experience, improve their confidence, and prepare for apprenticeships, employment, or further study.
The opening of the Leicester city centre location demonstrates Juniper Training’s ongoing commitment to investing in local communities and helping learners achieve their personal and professional goals.
By providing high-quality training, dedicated learner support, and accessible education opportunities, Juniper Training continues to empower individuals with the skills they need to thrive in today’s workplace.
Visit Our New Leicester Centre
If you are interested in learning more about our programmes or enrolling at our new Leicester centre, we would love to hear from you.
📍 Juniper Training Leicester 34 Pocklingtons Walk Leicester LE1 6BU
We look forward to welcoming learners through our doors and supporting them as they take the next step in their educational and career journey.
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.
A new group of young people have started their journey towards a career in construction. They have joined Juniper Training’s Level 1 Introduction to Construction Study Programme at our Building Futures Centre.
Designed for young people aged 16–19 (16-24 if they have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). The programme provides an opportunity to learn the basics of construction, develop practical skills and gain valuable experience of the workplace.
For our new learners, this course is the beginning of them gaining hands on experience in the construction sector.
New Starters at Juniper Training Building Futures
Learning the basics of construction
The Level 1 Introduction to Construction course provides learners with a foundation of knowledge. It provides learners with the practical skills that can help prepare them for their next steps.
Throughout the programme, learners will be introduced to the basics of construction. This will develop their understanding of the industry and the skills needed to progress.
In addition to this, the course provides a hands-on learning environment where young people can develop their confidence while exploring whether a career in construction is right for them.
Learners may have an idea of the construction career they would like to pursue or are still exploring their options. This programme gives them an opportunity to discover more about the industry and the opportunities available.
Gaining valuable work experience
An important part of the programme is the opportunity for learners to complete a period of work experience during their time on the course.
Work experience can be an invaluable opportunity for young people to gain an insight into the world of work. It allows them to put some of the skills they develop during their training into practice.
It can also help learners develop important employability skills, including communication, teamwork, time management, reliability and professional behaviour.
For young people considering a future in construction we acknowledge what the study program can provide them. It allows them to experience a working environment. The study program can help them understand what it is like to work within the industry and build confidence for their next step.
Building skills for a future career
At Juniper Training, we want our learners to look beyond their course and consider where their skills could take them in the future.
The construction industry offers a wide variety of career pathways and opportunities, including skilled trades, site-based roles and apprenticeships.
Our Level 1 Construction Study Programme provides learners with the opportunity to start building the knowledge, practical skills and confidence that can support their progression into a construction career.
The aim is not simply to complete a course, but to help young people understand their options and work towards their future goals and career.
Supporting young people aged 16–19
Choosing what to do after school can be a big decision. For some young people, a practical, hands-on learning environment can provide an alternative way to develop skills and prepare for employment.
Our Level 1 Construction Course for 16–19-year-olds gives learners the opportunity to gain practical experience. It also allows them to develop these skills while receiving support as they work towards their next steps.
For parents and carers, it can also provide reassurance that their young person is developing skills that can be valuable both within the workplace and in their future career.
Welcome to our new construction learners!
We’re looking forward to seeing them develop their skills, whilst they grow in confidence. They will also discover more about the opportunities available within the construction industry throughout their time with us.
Our newest group of Level 1 Construction Study Programme learners have been welcomed to the Building Futures Centre.
Their journey is only just beginning — and we can’t wait to see what they build for their future. 🏗️🔨
Interested in our Level 1 Construction Course?
If you’re aged 16–19 and interested in learning more about construction, our Level 1 Introduction to Construction Study Programme could be a great way to start exploring a career in the industry.
Learners with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) may be eligible to join up to the age of 24.
To find out more about the course, eligibility, what you’ll learn and how to get started, visit the Juniper Training Building Futures Construction page:
Have you always dreamed of having a career in fitness? Whether you want to become a gym instructor, personal trainer, or simply learn more about the opportunities available in the sector, our upcoming Juniper Training Runcorn Open Days are the perfect place to start.
Join Juniper Training on 19 August 2026 or 2 September 2026 to discover our NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Gym Instructing and Personal Training and take the first step towards an exciting and rewarding career.
Explore Juniper Training Gym Instructing and Personal Training Course
The fitness industry continues to grow, creating opportunities for qualified professionals who can support people to achieve their health and wellbeing goals.
Our NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Gym Instructing and Personal Training is designed to equip learners with the practical skills, industry knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed in the sector.
By attending our Open Day, you’ll have the opportunity to:
Learn more about the course structure and content
Meet our experienced delivery team
Explore potential career pathways within the fitness industry
Ask questions about enrolment and eligibility
Discover how this qualification can help you achieve your goals
A career in fitness offers the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives while working in a fast-paced and rewarding environment. As a qualified gym instructor or personal trainer, you can help individuals improve their health, build confidence, and achieve their personal fitness goals.
The NCFE Level 3 Diploma provides the recognised qualification needed to progress into employment within gyms, health clubs, leisure facilities, and personal training businesses.
As part of your NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Gym Instructing and Personal Training, you’ll also benefit from a wider Pre-Apprenticeship Study Programme, including support to build a professional CV, gain valuable work experience, develop your maths and English skills where required, and receive dedicated guidance to help you progress into employment, an apprenticeship, or further learning. Find out more about our Pre-Apprenticeship Study Programmes on our Pre-Apprenticeship Study Programme page.
Book Your Place
If you’re passionate about fitness and ready to turn that passion into a profession, we’d love to meet you.
Join us at our Runcorn Open Day and discover how Juniper Training can help you achieve your career ambitions.
📅 19 August 2026 or 2 September 2026 📍 ABC Boxing Club, Runcorn Shopping City, WA7 2EU For more information or to register your interest, contact Dean on dean.mannion@junipertraining.co.uk
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.
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.
