Nominations are now being sought for the prestigious NIAA2026 which will recognise and showcase excellence and best practice in the participation and delivery of Apprenticeships. Finalists will be selected and invited to a special awards ceremony on Wednesday 25th March 2026 at the Titanic Hotel Belfast.
There are seven award categories for 2026:
- Apprentice of the Year Award (Levels 2-3);
- Higher Level Apprentice of the Year Award (Level 4+);
- Public Sector Apprentice of the Year Award;
- Large Employer in partnership with their Training Provider Award (employers with 250 employees and over);
- Small to Medium Enterprise in partnership with their Training Provider Award (employers with fewer than 250 employees);
- Mentor Award;
- Public Sector Employer in partnership with their Training Provider.
Nomination forms must be completed before 12:00 noon on Friday 24th October 2025 – late returns will not be accepted.
Full details on application criteria for each of the awards, and how to apply, are available on the Department's website at:
Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards | Department for the Economy.