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. It’s all about showcasing the ideas, innovation, and determination that neurodiverse young people bring to the future of work.

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

Apply

Could you be the Future Apprentice of the Year Celebrating Neurodiverse Talent?

prizes

What could you win?

You could win an experience day at one of BAE Systems' offices around the UK! With your choice of chaperone, 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.

what it takes

What makes an award winner?

The winner of the Future Apprentice Celebrating Diverse Talent must demonstrate:

A passion for BAE Systems and the work they do
Have an interest in the STEM sector
Be brave and innovative

Review application

FROM OUR PARTNER

BAE Systems and the Engineering Undergraduate of the Year

Who are BAE Systems?

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.

With a huge range of opportunities, you’ll be given the responsibility to make a real impact, from day one. It’s a career you can be proud of, in a team that’s shaping a safer tomorrow.

Click here to find out more about our early careers opportunities.

How do I win?

Start your journey

Extended Deadline:

January

2026

Online tests

Deadline:

January

2026

Submit by

5 January

2026

Complete and submit your application by 9 am on 5th January 2026.

If you are shortlisted for the next stage, you'll hear from us by 16th January 2026.

Assessment

If your application makes it through the first stage, it'll be reviewed by BAE Systems.

Celebrate your success

The final shortlist of ten students will be invited to the awards ceremony on 27th February 2026, where the winners will be revealed.

All finalists will be invited to bring along a parent to celebrate the big moment.

Apply Review application