Contact us
If you are a student and require more information about any of our awards please contact:
The Future Apprentice of the Year Awards team
T +44 (0)1491 828915
E targetjobs Future Apprentice of the Year Team
Keep up to date with targetjobs Future Apprentice of the Year on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
FAQs
General information
What are the targetjobs Future Apprentice of the Year Awards?
The targetjobs Future Apprentice of the Year Awards celebrate young people who are ready to earn while they learn. Each award is backed by top employers offering life-changing prizes, from paid internships and trips abroad to exclusive experiences that open real doors to your future. It’s all about recognising ambition, skill, and the drive to start strong.
How do I apply?
On the website, choose the award you want to apply for and hit the apply button! You will be asked to register and fill in some information about yourself. Once you’ve done this, you’ll be asked to answer no more than four essay-style questions and complete no more than three psychometric tests. And that’s it!
Why should I apply to the Future Apprentice of the Year Awards?
Every step of the application process will be beneficial to you. You will gain experience answering interview-style questions and psychometric tests, which are often used within the apprentice recruitment process. If you progress to the following stages, you will have fantastic networking opportunities with both employers and like-minded students!
What prizes are available?
The prizes vary between each award, but in general, there are paid summer internships and mentorship opportunities available with the award partners.
Will I only benefit from the awards if I win?
No! As soon as you start your application, you'll begin to gain valuable experience. From practising online tests to experiencing assessment centres, you'll be a winner regardless of the outcome. Many of our award partners this year also have opportunities available for their finalists, should they be successful.
About the awards
How many awards can I apply for?
You can only apply for one award each year.
What types of awards are there?
There are numerous types of awards, but they can fit into two categories:
- Future career areas (eg Financial)
- Personal characteristics (eg Neurodiverse)
Make sure to read about all the awards available to see which one is right for you.
How do I know which award is right for me?
Take some time to thoroughly understand all the awards. Read about the award criteria and prize and research the award partner. Make sure you feel passionate about the prize and organisation, as this will drive your determination to succeed.
Who sets the entry criteria?
Each award partner sets the entry criteria for their award.
Eligibility
Can I apply for an award without studying a relevant subject?
Of course, unless it is stated within the entry criteria that you must be studying a certain subject.
Will studying an unusual or niche subject hinder my application?
No! We welcome applicants studying all subjects.
What does the “right to work in the UK after graduation” mean?
Due to the prizes offered by each of the award partners, unfortunately we cannot accept applications to some of the awards if you do not have the right to work in the UK after graduation. This means if you are on a student (Tier 4) visa then you unfortunately cannot apply. When considering whether you are eligible to apply, please take your current situation into account, rather than what may or may not happen in the future.
The application process
What happens after I submit my application?
Should your application be successful, we will contact you in February via email once applications have closed.
I am struggling with my application. Do you have anything that can help me?
Here are some helpful links to support you through your application:
- Read our guide to online application forms
- Familiarise yourself with the STAR technique for answering application and interview questions
- Get advice on psychometric tests
- Attend one of our exclusive events or webinars
- Research top employers using our organisation hubs
I'm entitled to extra time on the psychometric tests. What should I do?
Please email us stating your requirements at futureapprenticeoftheyear@targetjobs.co.uk and we will arrange this for you.
I encountered some technical issues when trying to apply. What should I do?
Please email us with as much information about the issue and, if you can, please screenshot the issue. Send us an email at futureapprenticeoftheyear@targetjobs.co.uk and we will get in touch as soon as we can.
The Grand Final
If I'm successful, when is the grand final?
If you are selected as a finalist you will be invited to the awards ceremony in Manchester in February 2026.
What happens on the day?
The day begins with a drinks reception, followed by opening speeches, and then by a 3-course meal. This is then followed by the awards ceremony which is hosted by a famous guest.
A contribution to expenses will be made for finalists travelling to the venue.
Can I bring a plus one?
All finalists will be invited to bring a plus one - ideally a parent or carer over the age of 18.
My question hasn’t been answered. What should I do?
We are happy to answer any questions that you may have, so please email us at futureapprenticeoftheyear@targetjobs.co.uk.
If you are an employer and would like to get involved in these awards, please contact:
E Sam Grant at sam.grant@groupgti.com
