Northern Ireland Regional Apprentice Prize

Awarded to an applicant who has studied / worked at a location in Northern Ireland and achieved, or working towards, a Level 4 Qualification in mechanical engineering or a related engineering topic and may have studied part-time or on-line.

Ideally the Prize will be awarded to the applicant that has demonstrated merit and industry during the study period. Whilst a good result is achieved in the study leading to a level 4 qualification the judges will be looking for evidence where the candidate has contributed to improvements in the workplace or in a voluntary capacity. The contribution should have a significant mechanical engineering content. The work must have been conducted whilst studying for, or towards the Level 4 Qualification, but not necessarily as part of it and within the last three years.

It is necessary for the apprentice to have a career plan covering the next three years or so.

Award conditions

The winner and highly commended entrants will be featured in promotional activity in the form of case studies, photos and web stories.

Award criteria

Entrants must describe the contribution that they have made either in the workplace, a voluntary situation, or as part of the study programme, and the benefits accruing from the work. For example, it could cover improvements made to processes to improve efficiency or safety in manufacture, enhancement to design arising from practical experience, it could cover enhancements to software or controls, it could cover assisting in a voluntary role to improve accessibility, etc. Entrants are also asked to describe the practical skills acquired since leaving school.

Any charity or voluntary work is relevant, especially related to engineering and encouraging young people into engineering. Apprentices must also show a career plan for the next three to five years.

Value of award

£3500 plus a certificate.
Any highly commended entrants will receive a certificate.

Application process

Closing date: 9 October 2026

Applications can be submitted throughout the year via the online application form.
You can nominate yourself or be nominated by a sponsor from your company or training provider/college.

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