The finalists for the 2026 Portsmouth & Chichester Apprenticeship Awards have been revealed, with the University of Chichester and the South Hampshire College Group (SHCG) among those shortlisted for top accolades.
The awards are designed to celebrate the achievements of apprentices, their mentors, and the training providers supporting the next generation of skilled workers across the region. A total of 14 categories are featured, ranging from intermediate and degree-level apprenticeships to specific awards for employers and individual mentors.
The University of Chichester has been named a finalist in the Training Provider of the Year category, specifically recognising the work of its School of Nursing and Allied Health.
South Hampshire College Group has also seen significant success in the shortlisting process, securing nominations across six different categories. Alongside a nomination for Training Provider of the Year, five of the group’s apprentices have been named as individual finalists:
- Grace Hood – Professional Services Apprentice of the Year
- Georgina Rogers – Intermediate Apprentice of the Year
- Brandon Engert – Construction Apprentice of the Year
- Thomas Pullen – Higher Apprentice of the Year
- Alisha Lane – Engineering/Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year
A spokesperson for South Hampshire College Group confirmed the nominations following the official announcement of the shortlist.
Event Details
The winners will be announced during a formal sit-down meal and presentation ceremony on Thursday, 22 October 2026. The event is scheduled to take place at the Portsmouth Marriott Hotel on Southampton Road in Cosham.
The awards are organised by National World Events for the Chichester Observer series and The News. The competition highlights the growing importance of vocational pathways in the regional economy, particularly in sectors such as nursing, construction, and engineering.