The Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards, in proud partnership with headline sponsor Pearson, has officially revealed the shortlist for its 10th annual ceremony, celebrating the outstanding achievements of apprentices from diverse backgrounds across the UK.
The shortlist was unveiled during an inspiring event hosted on the evening of Thursday 22nd May at BPP University in London, attended by leading figures from further education, early careers sectors, and apprentices themselves. This year’s awards saw a record-breaking number of over 500 apprentice nominations, resulting in the largest-ever shortlist, with 152 apprentices selected as finalists across a wide range of sectors.
Among the most competitive categories was Digital & Technology, which received over 100 nominations alone, resulting in 20 standout apprentices being named finalists in this growing and vital industry.
Reflecting the evolving landscape of apprenticeship pathways, the ‘Management, Legal & Professional Services’ category has been separated into ‘Management & Professional Services’ and ‘Legal Services’, to recognise the increased number of apprentices forging successful careers in the legal field.
In addition to celebrating apprentice achievements, the awards also highlight the organisations behind their success. This year’s shortlist includes:
- 44 Employers
- 14 Learning Providers
- 8 Universities
New for 2025 is the introduction of the ‘School of the Year’ category, sponsored by City & Guilds, which recognises schools that actively promote apprenticeships as viable and valuable career routes for students from all backgrounds. Eight schools have been shortlisted for their commitment to inspiring the next generation of vocational learners.
The shortlist announcement was also streamed live on YouTube, where hundreds of viewers from across the country tuned in to share in the celebration and support the nominees.
Attendees were welcomed with an opening speech from Martyn Leader, VP of Pearson TQ & Employer Engagement.
“At Pearson, we’re proud to support these awards – and the broad spectrum of talent that they represent. This is talent that spans industries, cultures and learning journeys – bringing together people from every corner of our community, united by dedication and achievement.
Apprenticeships work when they reflect real life. Not just one kind of learner, but many. Not one path in, but several. They offer a way forward to people who might not have seen one before – and that can make a profound difference not just to individuals, but to families, communities and entire industries.”
The awards’ founder and Pathway Group CEO Safaraz (Saf) Ali shared this sentiment, saying “Apprenticeships work best when they work for everyone. Apprenticeships are about a rite of passage throughout a career and not just the start. We believe that the best way to promote apprenticeships is through the apprentices themselves”.
A Milestone Celebration Ahead
To mark a decade of recognising excellence and diversity in apprenticeships, the 2025 awards ceremony will take place for the first time in London, at the Hilton London Metropole on Friday 7th November 2025. Tickets are now available to purchase via the website.
To view the full shortlist, please visit: https://multiculturalapprenticeshipawards.co.uk/shortlist-2025/
Congratulations to this year’s finalists!
About The Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards
Founded in 2016 by Pathway Group and organised by ThinkFest, the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards showcase the talent and diversity within multicultural communities through the celebration of those working hard to overcome adversity to achieve their goals through apprenticeships.
The awards highlight the achievements of apprentices and the contribution of employers and learning providers on the apprenticeship journey.
About Pearson
At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to help people realize the life they imagine through learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s lifelong learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are. Visit us at pearsonplc.com.
