About the awards
The Future Apprentice of the Year Awards celebrate the UK’s most ambitious and talented students, the next generation of aspiring apprentices who are ready to learn, grow, and make a real impact.
These awards recognise more than just grades. They shine a light on young people who combine curiosity, creativity, and collaboration with the skills and mindset employers are looking for.
Each award is run in partnership with a leading employer who offer exclusive prizes for the winners, and opportunities for finalists. Prizes vary from exclusive Work Experience Weeks, Career Accelerator Insight Days, Career Mentoring & unique learning experiences... in some cases, students even have the potential to secure an apprenticeship offer.
Finalists for each category are invited to an exciting awards ceremony in April 2027, where we celebrate their achievements and announce the winners in style with lunch and refreshments included. The location is yet to be confirmed; however, travel expenses are covered for students and one guest (accompanying parent/guardian, or responsible adult).
Before you apply, please take time to explore all award categories. You can only enter one, so choose the one that best reflects your skills, goals, and ambitions and start your journey toward becoming the next Future Apprentice of the Year!
Want to find out more before you commit? Join us for a short webinar;
- 21st October
- 5.30 pm - approx 6.30 pm
- Sign up using the Link here
- Learn more about the Awards and 'meet the Apprentices' currently working at Rolls Royce, EY, Sage, Tesco, Howden, BAE Systems!
Ready to jump in? Then click below!
The entry process
Your journey starts online. You’ll begin by completing a short application form and up to three online assessments with our partner SHL, a global leader in talent insight, as well as a few questions set by the employer sponsoring your chosen award. These questions help the partner get to know what drives you and what makes you stand out.
The process usually takes around one hour, but you don’t have to do it all in one go; you can save your progress and come back anytime before the 15th February 2027 deadline.
The online assessments are designed to help you showcase your strengths, how you think, learn, and solve problems. Employers use your results, along with your application, to decide who moves forward to the next stage. It's great practice too, as lots of employers use this type of testing for their apprenticeship roles, so you will get a sneak peek of what to expect for the futur!
If you’re shortlisted, some clients may require a further screening, which your award employer partner will lead, but we will be here to support and guide you along the way. If you are asked to do this, consider this as a chance to meet industry experts, connect with other finalists, and experience what it’s like to work in your chosen field. Once all the students have completed screening (in February), the top ten students in each category are invited to the Future Apprentice of the Year Awards Ceremony in April, where the winners are revealed and celebrated in front of employers, families, and industry leaders.
The targetjobs Future Apprentice of the Year Awards are the only national apprenticeship awards of their kind, and they’re recognised by employers across the UK.
Becoming a finalist (or winner!) isn’t just a title for your CV, it’s a genuine career opportunity. So, Why Should I Apply?
CONNECTIONS: Access to and network with influential professionals & prospective apprenticeship employers.
INSIGHTS: What are employers looking for? Hear from leading professionals and experience their world at an exclusive awards ceremony & dinner.
HUSTLE: Build your personal profile and brand with prospective employers at a prestigious and nationwide event. An accolade to set you apart from the crowd! Social coverage and interviews with candidates and employers.
FUTURE: Exclusive prizes for the winner, such as access to further professional development opportunities and even the potential for an apprenticeship offer.
Want to boost your application and stand out from the crowd?
- Read our guide to online application forms
- Master the STAR technique for answering application and interview questions
- Get tips on psychometric tests
- Join one of our exclusive events or webinars
- Research top employers using our organisation hubs
