The Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards are proud to announce their return for 2026, marking the 11th year of celebrating excellence, diversity and inclusion across apprenticeships in the UK.
The launch of the 2026 awards is accompanied by the announcement of NOCN Group as Headline Partner, reinforcing a shared commitment to widening participation, improving skills outcomes and championing inclusive routes into education and employment.
NOCN is an established and respected education and skills charity, delivering qualifications, end-point assessment and quality assurance across further education, skills and employability. With a strong focus on social mobility, inclusion and lifelong learning, NOCN works with education providers, employers and learners to ensure high-quality outcomes that meet the needs of individuals, communities and the economy.
Headline Partner NOCN Group
Graham Hastings-Evans OBE, Chief Executive of NOCN Group
As Headline Partner for 2026, NOCN will support the awards in celebrating excellence and highlighting best practice across the apprenticeship landscape.
Graham Hastings-Evans OBE, Chief Executive of NOCN Group, said: “Apprenticeships play a vital role in creating opportunity, supporting social mobility and developing the skilled workforce our economy needs. The Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards shine an important light on those individuals and organisations who are truly making a difference. We are proud to be the headline partner for the 2026 awards and to support the recognition of excellence, inclusion and innovation across the sector.”
Nominations officially open during National Apprenticeship Week on Wednesday 11 February 2026, inviting entries from across the country.
The awards celebrate outstanding apprentices, employers and learning providers who are breaking down barriers, creating inclusive pathways to success, and demonstrating the transformative power of apprenticeships within diverse communities.
Over the past decade, the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards have become a nationally recognised platform, shining a spotlight on inspirational stories, innovative practice and leadership that is helping to shape a more inclusive skills system.
Safaraz Ali MBE, Founder of the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards
Safaraz Ali MBE, Founder of the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards, said: “As we enter our 11th year, the awards continue to grow in impact and importance. Partnering with NOCN as our headline partner for 2026 reflects a shared commitment to widening participation and recognising excellence across the apprenticeship landscape.”
Key Dates for 2026:
· Nominations Open: Wednesday 11th February 2026 (National Apprenticeship Week)
· Nomination Deadline: Sunday 31st May 2026
· Shortlist Announced: Wednesday 14th June 2026
· Awards Ceremony: Friday 6th November 2026
The 2026 awards will culminate in a prestigious awards ceremony bringing together apprentices, employers, learning providers, policymakers and sector leaders to celebrate success and share best practice.
Nominations are open to apprentices, employers and learning providers of all sizes and sectors, with a range of categories recognising achievement, innovation and commitment to diversity.
Thank you to all of our sponsors of the awards, Kaplan UK, Mindful Education, City Century, Royal Navy, British Army, Skills & Education Group, Lloyds Banking Group, Amazing Apprenticeships, Pearson, AstraZeneca and City & Guilds.
We have a few sponsorship opportunities available, please email Kasim.choudhry@pathwaygroup.co.uk for more information.
