From 9–15 February 2026, we proudly join the national celebration of apprenticeships, a week dedicated to recognising the individuals and organisations shaping the future of work.
Apprenticeships open doors, build confidence, and develop the practical skills employers need. This year, we're celebrating the outstanding apprentices and employers who’ve gone above and beyond, demonstrating excellence, dedication, and promise across the board.
🏆 Apprentice of the year 2026: Daniel Cunnington
Daniel Cunnington, who is completing his apprenticeship at New Oscott Primary School, has been named our Apprentice of the Year for 2026, and it’s easy to see why.
From day one, Daniel has shown not only technical skill and consistency but also a genuine commitment to growth. He’s gone the extra mile, taken initiative, and made a lasting impression on both colleagues and mentors within the school community. His professionalism, reliability, and positive attitude have set a shining example of what a modern apprentice can be.
This award recognises not just his achievements to date, but the promising journey that lies ahead.
🌱 Apprentice with promise 2026: Evie Bailey
This year’s Apprentice with Promise award goes to Evie Bailey, who is completing her apprenticeship with ActiveMe360, a rising star who’s made a big impression in a short amount of time.
Evie has quickly shown herself to be curious, capable, and committed. From day one, she’s approached her role with enthusiasm and maturity, always eager to learn and take on new challenges. Her strong start and positive attitude have earned her team's respect and highlighted her potential for long-term success.
This award recognises apprentices who are already showing signs of something special, and Evie has done just that.
🥈 Celebrating our runners-up
This year’s awards brought forward an inspiring group of nominees, apprentices who have gone above and beyond in their roles, showing professionalism, determination, and a genuine impact in their settings.
While only one apprentice could take the top title in each category, we are incredibly proud to recognise the achievements of our runners-up. Your dedication and growth are worth celebrating, and you each represent the true spirit of apprenticeship.
⭐ Apprentice of the year – runners-up
-
- Charley Searle – A Level 4 Sports Coach at Chapelford Village Primary School, Charley consistently receives outstanding feedback and actively volunteers to ensure students have access to a wide range of sporting opportunities. Her leadership has helped raise the quality of PE across the school.
-
- Harrison Hanson – Completing the Level 3 CSHO programme at Tipton Leisure Centre, Harrison overcame personal challenges during his apprenticeship and achieved an overall Distinction, including top marks in his panel interview and presentation.
-
- James Matthews – A Level 4 apprentice at Thorns Primary School, James is known for his positivity and energy. He fully engages with every learning opportunity, and his enthusiasm lifts those around him, students and peers alike.
-
- Rene Hunter – Rene, a Level 2 Community Activator Coach at Fiesta Sports, has shown impressive personal and professional growth. She adapts sessions creatively and brings real community value through her inclusive coaching.
-
- Steven Bowden – Completing a swim-specialised Level 2 Community Activator Coach programme with CV Life, Steve has been a consistent role model and mentor. He delivers excellent sessions and is highly praised by both colleagues and managers.
🌱 Apprentice with promise – runners-up
-
- Kwaku Odame-Darkwa – Kwaku, a Level 4 apprentice with Moving Matters, is known for his strong relationships with pupils and staff alike. He goes above and beyond in every aspect of his work, demonstrating true commitment and long-term potential.
-
- Laylom Brennan – Laylom is completing the Level 2 Community Activator Coach apprenticeship with Progressive Derbyshire. Her attention to detail, professionalism, and steady progress stand out; she continues to grow in confidence and capability every step of the way.
To each of you: thank you for the impact you’ve made and the example you’ve set. Your journey is just beginning, and we can’t wait to see where it takes you.
👏 Employer of the year awards 2026
Exceptional apprenticeships don’t happen by accident; they’re built through partnership, structure, and care. Our Employer of the Year awards recognise organisations that have gone above and beyond to provide outstanding environments for apprentice development.
This year, we’re proud to celebrate two standout employers in their categories:
🏫 Schools award winner: Boldmere Infant and Nursery / Junior School
A supportive and engaged employer.
Boldmere is a shining example of how to create an environment where apprentices thrive. Their strong PE curriculum and well-structured approach provide an ideal foundation for developing confident, capable school sports coaches.
Lessons are organised with clarity, and apprentices are given clear expectations alongside ongoing guidance. The school’s regular observations and timely, thoughtful feedback, shared with both apprentices and their skills coaches, help refine practice and boost development.
Boldmere’s responsiveness, encouragement, and genuine commitment to apprentice progress make them an exceptional setting to learn and grow in.
🏢 Organisations award winner: Moving Matters
A reliable and impactful partner.
Moving Matters has consistently demonstrated what it means to be a gold-standard apprenticeship partner. Over the years, they’ve worked closely with Aspire to place and support apprentices all the way through to successful qualification.
Their mentor staff play a vital role, delivering regular, high-quality observations and offering feedback that’s both timely and constructive. Communication is a clear strength, prompt, consistent, and always geared toward improving outcomes for learners.
Moving Matters remains actively engaged throughout each apprenticeship journey, making them not only reliable but also deeply impactful. Their professionalism and dedication set them apart as a trusted and valued partner.
🎉 Why apprenticeships matter
Apprenticeships open doors. They give individuals the chance to gain practical experience, build meaningful skills, and grow into confident professionals, all while making a real impact in the workplace.
They also help employers develop future talent from within, bringing in new ideas, energy, and perspectives. Apprenticeships aren’t just about learning a job; they’re about shaping careers, creating opportunity, and building stronger teams and communities.
Whether someone is just starting out or looking to retrain, apprenticeships offer a powerful pathway to long-term success. That’s why we celebrate them, and why they matter more than ever.
🤝 Thank you for supporting apprenticeship success
To every apprentice, employer, mentor, and supporter, thank you. This celebration wouldn’t be possible without your passion, time, and belief in what apprenticeships can achieve.
You’ve helped create real opportunities, championed personal growth, and shown how powerful learning in the workplace can be. Whether you nominated someone, cast a vote, or simply encouraged an apprentice on their journey, your support matters.
📘 Want to learn more about apprenticeships?
If you’re thinking about becoming an apprentice, supporting one, or bringing apprentices into your organisation, we’re here to help.
👉 Explore available opportunities: aaeg.co.uk/ats
📩 Or book a call to chat with our team: Schedule a call