A new county-wide awards programme celebrating apprenticeship achievement across Kent and Medway has been launched during National Apprenticeship Week.
The Kent Apprenticeship Awards bring together colleges, employers and partners from across the region to recognise outstanding apprentices, alongside the businesses that support them.
The awards build on the long heritage of the East Kent Apprenticeship Awards, which have celebrated apprenticeship achievement for many years, and now expand that success to reflect the breadth of apprenticeship activity across the whole county.
The awards are designed to highlight the important role apprenticeships play in meeting current and future skills needs. They place a strong emphasis on those undertaking apprenticeship programmes, recognising the commitment, progress and contribution apprentices make in their workplaces, as well as the practical skills they develop along the way.
The Kent Apprenticeship Awards aim to recognise not only achievement, but the dedication and resilience shown throughout an apprentice’s journey. Many of the apprentices recognised through the awards balance work, study and personal commitments, while making a real and tangible contribution to their organisations.
Alongside individual success, the awards also celebrate employers who show a strong commitment to running high-quality apprenticeship programmes and investing in future skills for Kent and Medway. These businesses play a vital role in developing talent, sharing expertise and creating opportunities for the next generation.
The launch comes at a time when many employers across Kent and Medway are experiencing skills shortages and are increasingly turning to apprenticeships as a long-term solution. Apprenticeships continue to offer a clear route into skilled employment, while helping businesses grow, adapt and plan for the future.
Founded by East Kent Colleges Group, MidKent College and North Kent College, the awards reflect a shared commitment to putting learners at the centre of skills development and ensuring apprenticeships continue to deliver real benefits for individuals, employers and the wider economy.
National Apprenticeship Week offers an opportunity to reflect on the value of apprenticeships and the difference they make. The Kent Apprenticeship Awards will build on that momentum, celebrating success and encouraging more people and businesses across Kent and Medway to get involved.
Further information, including award categories, nomination details and the 2026 awards programme, is available here.
