Organised by the Express & Star in partnership with the Ladder Foundation, the Black Country Apprenticeship Awards 2026 builds on a decade of impact. For over 10 years, the Ladder Foundation has championed the creation of 10,000+ apprentices through awareness campaigns, regional awards, and the development of a dedicated school and skills centre - rooted in the Ladder for the Black Country campaign launched in 2014 with the Express & Star.

2026 is the 5th Black Country Apprenticeship Awards - this year hosted in Wolverhampton - the programme features 14 categories recognising excellence across the region’s thriving apprenticeship network. In 2025, more than 270 apprentices, training providers and employers joined us for an inspiring celebration of achievement and impact.

We welcome entries from businesses and apprentices from the following areas: Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton.

Nominations close on September 23, 2026 8:00 pm. 

Interested in sponsorship?

For sponsorship enquiries please contact Events Business Development Manager, Mark Harsley on 07875 368525 or mark.harsley@nationalworld.com.