National Apprenticeship Week now behind us, we’re reflecting on a busy and inspiring week celebrating and championing apprenticeships across our community. From engaging employers to supporting future apprentices, here’s a snapshot of what we achieved:
A week packed with activity
- Information sessions: We hosted a series of drop-in sessions for prospective employers and apprentices, offering guidance, answering questions, and showcasing the opportunities apprenticeships can provide. These were well attended with lots of positive discussion around the impact apprenticeships can have on an organisation.
- Apprenticeship Awards: We proudly hosted our annual Apprenticeship Awards, celebrating the achievements of outstanding apprentices and recognising the commitment of the employers who support them. With over 170 guests in attendance the day saw 16 individual apprentices receiving awards and over 200 individuals nominees celebrated.
The day culminated in the award for overall Apprentice of The Year being presented, which was won by Jess Davey of Syneos Health, read Jess’s full interview after receiving the award here : Jessica Davey Apprentice of the year 2026 winnerMore details about this exciting event can be found here : Celebrating Our Apprenticeship Community during National Apprenticeship Week 2026 – Apprenticeships at Kent
- Employer partner events: Throughout the week, we attended events with our employer partners, helping promote apprenticeships and continuing important conversations around skills, talent, and workforce development. Including an event at Great Ormond Street Hospital which was attended by our Senior Business Development and Marketing Officer Alan Bikowski and Employer Relations Lead Sarah Carroll
Looking ahead
National Apprenticeship Week is just one part of our ongoing commitment to apprenticeships. We have many more events, information sessions, and opportunities planned to continue supporting employers and apprentices throughout the year.
To find out more about our apprenticeship programmes, please visit the University website or contact our team at recruitapprenticeships@kent.ac.uk.