Headline host announced for Worcestershire Apprenticeships Awards as nominations draw to a close

Known for her sharp wit and celebrated performances across TV and stage, Shazia will bring her trademark energy and humour to one of the county’s most anticipated skills events, taking place on Thursday 13 November 2025 at West Midlands Safari Park.

The WA Awards is a night dedicated to celebrating the exceptional individuals and employers driving Worcestershire’s apprenticeship success. Established through a partnership between Worcestershire County Council and the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, the grant-funded Worcestershire Apprenticeships programme helps to address the skills and employment needs of the local workforce by supporting apprenticeship growth across the county.

Judy Gibbs, Head of Skills and Employability at Worcestershire County Council and Director of Skills for Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Shazia as host for this year’s WA Awards. Her energy and enthusiasm will help us shine a brilliant spotlight on the people and organisations who make apprenticeships such a success in our county. The awards are a real celebration of growth, talent and ambition – and with just days to go until nominations close, we’re urging everyone to get involved and help us recognise the incredible achievements being made across Worcestershire.”

Councillor Alan Amos, Worcestershire County Council Cabinet Member for Business and Skills, added, “Apprenticeships are vital to the future of Worcestershire’s economy. They help local businesses fill skills gaps, nurture home-grown talent, and create long-term opportunities for growth and success. The WA Awards are more than just a celebration – they are a powerful reminder of the difference apprenticeships make in helping our businesses thrive, which in turn helps our communities prosper. I’m passionate about supporting local employers and look forward to celebrating the outstanding accomplishments of Worcestershire’s apprentices this November.”

With less than a week remaining to enter or nominate, the Worcestershire Apprenticeships team is encouraging final submissions ahead of the Friday 18 July deadline. 

Nominations are open to apprentices, employers, schools, training providers and mentors who have made a real difference over the last year – and can be made quickly and easily online.

The 2025 event will recognise achievements across ten categories:

Apprentice Awards

• Intermediate Level Apprentice of the Year
• Advanced Level Apprentice of the Year
• Higher Level Apprentice of the Year
• Degree Level Apprentice of the Year

Employer Awards

• Micro/Small Apprenticeship Employer of the Year
• Medium Apprenticeship Employer of the Year
• Large Apprenticeship Employer of the Year

Support Awards

• School of the Year
• Training Provider of the Year
• Apprentice Mentor of the Year

The evening will culminate in the announcement of the overall winners for ‘Worcestershire Apprentice of the Year’ and ‘Worcestershire Apprenticeship Employer of the Year’ – two prestigious titles that celebrate the very best in local talent and skills development.

To nominate before the 18 July deadline, visit the WA Awards section of the Worcestershire Apprenticeships website.