BCS IT & Digital Apprenticeship Awards 2026

Postponed for 2026

If you are interested in entering your apprentice into awards, BCS has an apprentice category in the UK IT Industry Awards, these are regarded as the most prestigious technology awards within the UK.

To find out more please visit: UK IT Industry Awards 2026 - Home Page

The BCS IT & Digital Apprenticeship Awards are back for their fifth year, celebrating the apprentices, mentors, and rising stars shaping the future of tech. This year, we’re excited to introduce new categories, including Digital Apprentice Mentor of the Year, recognising those working tirelessly behind the scenes.

Digital apprenticeships are at the heart of BCS’s commitment to making IT good for society. Our awards recognise those making a real impact—in their careers, workplaces, and communities.

The BCS ITA Awards 2026 are hosted by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT




Who Can Enter?

If your rising star has enrolled in or completed a digital apprenticeship or digital T Level since January 2025, this is your chance to showcase their achievements—whatever their age or tech discipline.

Nominations are welcome from:

  • Employers
  • Training providers
  • Apprentices or students themselves (with a supporting reference from their employer or provider)

Check out the categories and start your nomination today!

Key dates for 2026:

  • February: Entries open
  • 11 April: Entries close
  • Late April / Early May: Shortlist announced
  • 1-5 June: Online judging for shortlisted finalists (20-minute discussions)
  • 9 July: Awards Celebration at The VOX, NEC, Birmingham
Entry guidance and terms

2026 Award Categories

Criteria: Professionalism / Innovation & Adding Value / Role Model / Measurable Success

Sub-categories:

  • Business Analyst L4
  • Cyber
  • Content Creator (NEW)
  • Data L3 & L4
  • Digital Services (accessibility, repair, learning)
  • Digital Product Manager
  • Digital Marketing
  • Information & Communications Technician
  • Network Engineer
  • Software L3/L4 (including DevOps)

Degree-Level Apprenticeship Standards

  • AI Data Specialist L6
  • Machine Learning Technician L7 (NEW)
  • Digital Degree Apprentice*


*May be split further depending on entries

Category information/criteria

Criteria: Learning & Development / Role Model / Approach to Work

Category information/criteria

Celebrating the people who inspire, guide, and develop the next generation of digital talent.

Impact – Demonstrates measurable difference to apprentices’ growth and success.

Excellence – Shows high-quality, professional, inclusive mentoring aligned to standards.

Category information/criteria

Entries accepted from England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Entry guidance and terms
ENTER NOW

2024 Event Highlights

Take a look at 2024’s ‘industrial-themed’ celebration!

The Celebration – 9 July 2026

Join us at The VOX, Birmingham, 12pm–4:45pm for an afternoon of celebration and networking:


Cabaret-style tables of 7

Street food carts 

300+ parking spaces & easy train access

Connect with the tech industry’s rising stars

Full details here

This was an achievement I genuinely didn’t see coming. To be recognised and acknowledged by someone else for my hard work was really nice and I’m grateful to my line manager for nominating me. It was a fantastic experience.

Lorna Mylett, Business Analyst Apprentice of the Year 2024 winner

It was my most emotional day at work in 44 years. I have never met relatives of my apprentices before! Quite overwhelming in terms of understanding how my own work positively impacts their parents, partner and loved ones.

Colin Smith, Learning Curve Group

Sponsorship Opportunities

Become a category sponsor and support the future of digital talent.

Contact: ITAAwards@bcs.uk