The outstanding achievements of Kent’s workforce of tomorrow were celebrated at the inaugural Kent Apprenticeship Awards, held at Priestfield Stadium on Thursday 4 June 2026.
The landmark event brought together apprentices, employers, mentors and training providers from across the county to recognise the vital role apprenticeships play in developing skills, creating opportunities and shaping Kent’s future workforce.
Founded through a pioneering collaboration between East Kent College Group, MidKent College and North Kent College, the awards attracted an impressive 125 nominations across a wide range of sectors including engineering, construction, healthcare, digital media and horticulture.
2026 Kent Apprenticeship Award Winners
- Early Career Apprentice of the Year: Alfie Wells
- Career Progression Award: Danielle Boakes
- Business, Finance, Travel and Administration: Anil Gurung
- Construction Industry: Mason Barnes
- Creative and Personal Services: Sophie Shorter
- Education, Care and Health Services: Emma Rannard
- Engineering, Manufacturing and Maintenance: Ryan Ashmore
- Land-Based, Environmental and Animal Care: Henry Stedman-Collins
- Mentor/Manager of the Year: The Mentor Team at Kimberly-Clark Northfleet Mill
- Employer of the Year: Laser Mechanical and Electrical Ltd
- Resilience and Personal Achievement Award: Leon Cole
- Champion 2026 Award: KKB Group
The awards showcased the ambition, resilience and dedication that apprentices bring to organisations across Kent, while highlighting the employers and mentors who support them to succeed.
A regional community effort
The success of the evening highlights the immense collaborative strength of Kent’s business community, brought to life by our founders, sponsors, and partners:
- Headline Sponsor: Kimberly-Clark
- Sponsors: Contracts Engineering Ltd, Southeastern, A C Goatham, Unite the Union, Kent Business College, Kent & Medway Careers Hub, Chartway Partnerships Group, and Bailey Partnership.
- Partners: Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, Kent & Medway Apprentice Graduation Ceremony, Lavender Blue Media, Cherrywood Productions, and Cactus Graphics (who designed and produced the evening’s beautiful trophies!).
- Founders: EKC Group, MidKent College and North Kent College
- Venue & Hospitality: Priestfield Stadium and their brilliant catering team.
Want to see the event highlights? Be sure to check out the official @Kent Apprenticeship Awards pages on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram to view photos from the night, connect with the finalists, and stay updated on upcoming details for the 2027 Awards!