We are thrilled to announce that nominations are now open for the Success Through Skills Awards 2025, a celebration of excellence in work-based learning and skills development. This event honours the remarkable achievements of learners and employers who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to growing their skills, advancing their careers, and contributing to their workplace. The awards recognise those who have excelled through apprenticeship programmes, vocational education, or work-based training, with ALS, ACT or any of our partners since November 2023.
Award Categories
This year’s awards feature Silver and Gold winners in each category, including:
- Apprenticeship Learner of the Year
- Foundation Apprenticeship Learner of the Year (Level 2)
- Higher Apprenticeship Learner of the Year
- JGW+ Learner of the Year (Advancement and Engagement Awards)
- ACT Schools Learner of the Year
- Essential Skills Learner of the Year
- Large Employer of the Year
- SME Employer of the Year
- Welsh Language Champion
- Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Champion
Whether you are an ambitious learner who has embraced new challenges, a forward-thinking employer committed to fostering talent, or a mentor guiding the next generation of skilled professionals, we encourage you to nominate those who have made a truly meaningful impact. By nominating, you’re helping to recognise the effort, innovation, and dedication that drive success in work-based learning, showcasing the power of skills development to transform careers and industries alike. Together, let’s celebrate the champions of learning who are shaping a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
Key Dates
- Nominations close: 29th November 2024
- Finalists notified: 9th January 2025
- Awards Ceremony: 6th February 2025
To submit a nomination, please visit here and complete the online form. We look forward to celebrating the incredible stories and successes of our learners and employers.
All nominees will receive a digital certificate to acknowledge dedication to improving skills.
About our judges
Chair of judges – Lisa Mytton, Strategic Director National Training Federation for Wales (NTfW)
Lisa has over 25 years of experience in the work-based learning and education sector, spanning roles from policy development to conducting Estyn inspections. In addition, she brings 14 years of experience working within local government and charitable organisations. Lisa’s extensive background provides her with a deep understanding of how work-based learning and skills development can positively impact businesses, individuals, and communities.
Mark Willmore – Assistant Director at Llamau, responsible for Education and Participation
Mark has extensive experience in education and youth engagement, starting his career with Careers Wales and leading initiatives to support young people at risk of disengagement. His work with Cardiff City Council’s Early Intervention programme informed the Welsh Government’s Youth Engagement Framework. At Llamau, he oversees education programmes for individuals furthest from the labour market, driven by a commitment to empowering young people to succeed.
Tracy Rees – Wales Director, Business in the Community (BITC)
With over 20 years at BITC, Tracy has led impactful programmes across the UK, focusing on community engagement, education, and employment. She oversees all BITC’s work in Wales, including education, employability, and local impact initiatives, and manages relationships with Welsh Government, local authorities, and key partners. Tracy works closely with Welsh businesses to foster responsible, sustainable practices that promote fairer workplaces and a greener nation.
Vicky Crock – Operational/ Development Manager, Careers Wales
Vicky worked for Careers Wales for 23 years across a variety of roles, beginning as a Careers Adviser in schools in the Vale of Glamorgan and with 16-18 year old school leavers, and from there progressed into management. Vicky has worked in strategic roles, firstly as a Policy Manager developing work for young people and adults in the labour market, and then managing the Skills Gateway for Adults Project, before moving back into delivery management. Since 2018 Vicky has been working as part of the Working Wales team as the Operational/ Development Manager for the South-Central region, and also has a national lead role within Careers Wales for Jobs Growth Wales+ and the Youth Engagement Progression Framework. Vicky is passionate about supporting young people and adults in Wales to access impartial careers information, advice, and guidance, to support them on their lifelong career journey.
