Future Apprentice of the Year Celebrating Neurodiverse Talent

Are you the

Future Apprentice of the Year Celebrating Neurodiverse Talent

?

We’re searching schools, colleges, and sixth forms across the UK to find the next Future Apprentice of the Year Celebrating Neurodiverse Talent. In partnership with BAE Systems, this award recognises ambitious, creative students who think differently and make things happen.

This award is open to students who feel they might learn or think a bit differently in ways often linked with neurodiversity. A formal diagnosis isn’t needed; students who think they may be neurodivergent, or who notice traits commonly associated with neurodiversity, are welcome to apply. The award is designed to support different ways of thinking, and students who feel it’s a good fit for them are encouraged to get involved.

To enter, you must:

  • Be a UK resident
  • Have a minimum of 5 GCSE's at grade 9-4 (or equivalent), including Maths & English
PRIZES

What could you win?

You could win an experience day at one of BAE Systems’ UK Offices! You'll have the opportunity to have breakfast with a senior leader, hear more about the work BAE do to support their apprentices, alongside a tour of the site to understand the work done at BAE.

about you

What makes an Award winner?

Our future apprentice of the year would be innovative, bold and trusted. Everyone is different, however by sharing these core values we’re connected in the way we collaborate and deliver on our goals.

about our partner

At BAE Systems, we provide some of the world’s most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions. We employ a skilled workforce of more than 93,000 people in around 40 countries. Working with customers and local partners, we develop, engineer, manufacture, and support products and systems to deliver military capability, protect national security, and keep critical information and infrastructure secure.

It’s a culture that values diversity, rewards integrity and merit, and is a place where everyone has the opportunity to fulfil their potential, no matter what their background. We’re committed to nurturing talent and striving for excellence; empowering our people to drive innovation, make the right decisions and solve complex challenges.

We hire around 1,000 new apprentices every year across Levels 2-6, and with roles spanning engineering, manufacturing, business services and technology. We also have work and insight experiences available for those looking to gain more knowledge it what life would be like as an apprentice at BAE Systems.

To find out more, click here.

going all the way

How do I win?

1. Register your details
2. Submit your application by
January 5, 2026
Your details must be submitted and completed by 9am on Monday 5th January 2026. If you are successful in making it through to the next stage, you will hear from us by 16th January 2026.
3. Assessment
Once you have completed your online application, it will be passed over to BAE Systems for review.
4. Grand Final
The final shortlist of 10 students will be invited to the awards ceremony on the 27th February 2026, where the award winners will be announced. All finalists will be invited to bring along a parent or carer to celebrate the big occasion.