Reigate & Banstead Borough Council has been shortlisted as a finalist for Apprenticeship Programme of the Year at The Learning Awards 2026.

These awards recognise the very best organisations across the UK and beyond — from Microsoft and KPMG to the NHS and Vodafone. To see Reigate & Banstead standing proudly among these names is a huge achievement and something to celebrate. This recognition reflects the amazing work of our apprentices, who bring energy, creativity, and commitment to everything they do, and our managers, who guide, support, and champion them every step of the way. Together, they’ve helped shape a programme that’s not only about qualifications, but about confidence, growth, and creating real career pathways within the council.

In November, we’ll present our programme to the national judging panel, showcasing how our approach to apprenticeships is helping to build skills, strengthen services, and support our People & Culture vision to Get, Keep, and Grow Great People. The winners will be announced at a black-tie ceremony in London next February, hosted by Claudia Winkleman at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House.

Cllr James King, Executive Member for Corporate Policy and Resources said:

“Being named a finalist at The Learning Awards is a huge moment for us. It shows that local government can deliver first-class apprenticeship programmes, and that our apprentices, their managers, and the OD&HR teams are driving real transformation together. Apprenticeships are one of the best ways to invest in people — they unlock potential, develop confidence, and build future leaders, and this nomination proves what we can achieve when we grow together.

We’ll update you again after the winners are announced mid-February 2026.