Posted on 7 May
Leeds College of Building (LCB) is riding high after being named the best college in England for apprenticeships.
Announced at The Apprenticeship Guide Awards 2026 at New Dock Hall in Leeds, the title recognises an outstanding further education provider that has ensured the highest standards in apprenticeship delivery.
After being shortlisted alongside three other finalists from hundreds of entries, LCB was selected as the winner for its strong engagement with employers and its clear commitment to supporting learners and their achievements over the past year.
The category, sponsored by headline partner Aptem, was assessed by an independent judging panel, led by head judge Chris Hyde from WorldSkills UK. Each entry was reviewed and scored, with judges commenting on the exceptionally high quality of entries in this category.
The 2026 awards welcomed a record-breaking number of attendees. Employers, training and apprenticeship providers, universities, schools, and colleges from across the UK all came together to recognise outstanding achievement across the sector.
The evening began with a welcome drinks reception before guests took their seats for dinner and the much-anticipated awards ceremony, hosted by comedian Jo Caulfield.
Chris Tunningley, LCB Assistant Principal – Apprenticeships & Higher Education, said:
“What a fantastic evening at the AGA Awards, celebrating the very best in the sector alongside our partners at BAM UK & Ireland. I was so very proud of our team for being named ‘Best College for Apprenticeships’. This award is a testament to the collective hard work and commitment of the entire team.
“It was also a privilege to celebrate with our long-standing partners, BAM, for their well-deserved win in the ‘Best Apprenticeship in Construction’ category for their impact on the industry. It was a great night for LCB and our industry partners!”
This award is the latest recognition for LCB after a string of successes. In March, the long-standing partnership between LCB and construction firm BAM won ‘Highly Commended’ at the 2026 Apprenticeship & Training Awards – one of the most high-profile events in the education sector.
Later the same month, the college and its apprentices were shortlisted for 13 potential awards at the West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards.
As well as being up for ‘Campaign of the Year’ at the Education North Awards, ten LCB apprentices were presented with prestigious ICE Quest Scholarships from The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and, only this month, the college won The Duchess of Gloucester Award for the Advancement of Skills within the Timber Industry.
For more details about the construction and built environment apprenticeships we offer visit here.
