Nominations open for GM Skills Awards 2026

Nominations are now open for the GM Skills Awards 2026, a celebration of the individuals, organisations and partnerships shaping skills and opportunity across Greater Manchester.

The awards shine a spotlight on learners, apprentices, educators, employers and those working collaboratively to support progression, inclusion and growth. They recognise not only outstanding outcomes, but also the dedication, innovation and impact that often goes unseen.

Award Categories for 2026 are:

• Intermediate Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Pearson
• Advanced Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by GMColleges
• Higher Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Rochdale Training
• Degree Apprentice of the Year
• 16-19 Learner of the Year, sponsored by NOCN
• Adult Learner of the Year, sponsored by NCFE
• Shining Star of the Year, sponsored by The Growth Company
• Unsung Hero of the Year, sponsored by Gateway Qualifications
• Team of the Year, sponsored by 1st2 Achieve Training
• SME of the Year, sponsored by Edge Foundation
• Large Employer of the Year, sponsored by NW Apprenticeship Ambassador Network
• Community Initiative of the Year, sponsored by Howorth Air Tech
• Partnership Project of the Year, sponsored by Manchester, a UNSECO City of Lifelong
• Learning
• Outstanding Contribution to FE and Skills 2026

Anyone can submit a nomination: this is an opportunity to recognise everyday excellence and say thank you to those making a difference.

To find out more about the awards and submit a nomination, visit the GM Skills Awards website. Nominations close at 5pm on 13th February 2026.