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The Higher Level Apprenticeship team at Southern Regional College has been named as a finalist in the Business Excellence Awards, with the results set to be announced at a ceremony in Belfast next month. The Newry-based college's team has been shortlisted in the 'Excellence in Skills & Workforce Capability' category.
The team, which was first established in September 2024 with a single HLA programme, seven apprentices and four employers, has expanded considerably since its inception. At the start of the 2025/26 academic year, the team recorded its largest ever intake, with 272 apprentices enrolled across 20 Higher Level Apprenticeship programmes spanning sectors including Accounting, Science, Business, Computing, Construction, Digital Marketing, Engineering, Fintech, Hospitality and Sport, supporting 209 businesses across the workforce.
A key part of the team's growth has been the development of a purpose-built digital HLA portal, which connects employers directly with HLA applicants. The platform has reduced administrative burdens and improved the experience for both businesses and prospective apprentices by streamlining the recruitment process.
The team has also focused on employer and community engagement through its annual 'Big Apprenticeship Events'. The most recent events, held in February 2026 in Newry, Mourne and Down and Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon, attracted almost 2,000 attendees over two nights, with participants engaging with more than 80 employers and support organisations.
Mrs Lee Campbell, Principal and Chief Executive of Southern Regional College, said: "We are absolutely delighted to see our Higher Level Apprenticeship team recognised as finalists in these prestigious awards. This achievement reflects the dedication, innovation and hard work of staff who continue to drive the programme forward.
"The growth the team have experienced, highlights the real demand for high-quality apprenticeship pathways that directly support industry needs while creating meaningful career opportunities for people across the region.
"We are particularly proud of the strong partnerships we have built with local businesses and the impact our HLA programmes are having in developing the skilled workforce. To be shortlisted in this category is a significant recognition of the College's aim to be at the forefront of providing a positive learning environment and working with local employers to meet the needs of the economy."
The awards ceremony will take place on Thursday 4 June at Titanic Belfast, where the final results across all categories will be announced.
