The Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards return in 2026 for their 11th year, once again shining a national spotlight on the inspirational individuals, employers and learning providers who champion diversity, inclusion and excellence across the UK’s apprenticeship landscape.

This year, I am delighted to share that NOCN Group will join the awards as Headline Partner, strengthening our shared commitment to widening participation, improving skills outcomes and creating accessible pathways into education and employment for people from all backgrounds.

Over the past decade, the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards have become a nationally recognised platform for elevating stories of resilience, innovation and leadership from across the UK’s multicultural communities. Our involvement reflects NOCN Group’s long-standing belief that a diverse and inclusive skills system is both fairer and stronger.

Inclusion Through Skills

At NOCN Group, our purpose has always been clear: to support social mobility, drive inclusive learning and ensure that skills-based education works for everyone. As an education and skills charity, we deliver qualifications and apprenticeship end-point assessment across the further education and skills landscape. Our work with providers, employers and learners is rooted in a belief that opportunity should be available to all - regardless of ethnicity, background or circumstance.

The Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards embody these values. They recognise those who not only excel in their training or provision, but who break down barriers, challenge inequalities and demonstrate the real, transformational power of apprenticeships.

Why This Partnership Matters

Apprenticeships play a vital role in supporting social mobility and developing the skilled workforce our economy needs to thrive. The awards highlight exactly what is possible when talent is nurtured and opportunity is accessible.

As I shared directly with colleagues at the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards:

“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.”

We look forward to celebrating the outstanding contributions of individuals and organisations across the apprenticeship community.

Find out about more about the awards, nomination process, as well as key dates for 2026 here.