A powerful line-up of major employers and industry organisations has thrown their support behind the Kent Apprenticeship Awards, reinforcing the growing momentum behind this new, county-wide celebration of skills and talent.
Bringing together nationally recognised brands and leading regional businesses, this year’s sponsors reflect the strength and depth of commitment to apprenticeships across Kent and Medway.
Headline sponsor Kimberly-Clark leads the line-up, joined by Contract Engineering Ltd, Southeastern, AC Goatham, Unite the Union, Kent & Medway Careers Hub, Chartway Partnerships Group and Bailey Partnership.
They are supported by a strong group of partners helping to bring the awards to life, including Invicta Chamber of Commerce, the Kent & Medway Apprentice Graduation Ceremony, Lavender Blue Media, Cherrywood Productions and Cactus Graphics.
Collectively, these organisations represent a broad cross-section of industries, from construction and engineering to transport, manufacturing and professional services, all united by a shared ambition to invest in skills, nurture talent and create long-term career opportunities.
Delivered in partnership with East Kent College Group, MidKent College and North Kent College, the Kent Apprenticeship Awards build on the success of previous programmes to create a single, high-profile platform celebrating apprentices, employers and training providers across the whole county.
Sponsors have spoken of their pride in supporting an initiative that shines a spotlight on the value of apprenticeships.
A spokesperson for Chartway Partnerships Group said:
“The Kent Apprenticeship Awards recognise the vital role apprentices play in shaping the future of our industry. As a Kent-based business, we are committed to investing in local talent and celebrating the achievements of individuals and organisations.”
Southeastern added:
“Apprenticeships give our colleagues, new and existing, the foundations in knowledge and skills for their chosen career pathways, while also supporting the business to drive cultural change through embedding expected behaviours.”
Kimberly-Clark, this year’s headline sponsor, commented:
“Apprenticeships add another dimension to learning. They turn knowledge into experience, build confidence and empower people to grow into the professionals they aspire to be.”
Unite the Union highlighted the importance of high-quality training routes:
“Apprenticeships are a major route into skilled, unionised employment. By sponsoring the awards, Unite is promoting high-quality training, not low-paid or exploitative schemes, encouraging employers to invest in long-term skills, not short-term labour, and supporting people into secure, skilled careers.”
The Kent Apprenticeship Awards will culminate in a gala dinner on 4 June 2026, bringing together finalists, employers and training providers from across the county for an evening of celebration and recognition. Tables are now booking for companies or individuals keen to celebrate apprentices, support the new awards, and connect with businesses and supporters from across Kent.
The Kent Apprenticeship Awards will culminate in a gala dinner on 4 June 2026, bringing together finalists, employers and training providers from across the county for an evening of celebration and recognition. Tables are now booking for companies or individuals keen to celebrate apprentices, support the new awards, and connect with businesses and supporters from across Kent.
Nominations are now closed.
You can still get involved! For ticket enquiries for the event, please contact julie@pillorybarn.co.uk