The Learning Awards celebrate innovation and achievement in workplace learning, recognising organisations that are making a difference through learning and development.
Cygnet’s apprenticeship programme provides colleagues with opportunities to gain nationally recognised qualifications, develop new skills and progress in their careers while continuing to work across the organisation’s services.
During 2025-26, Cygnet recorded 150 new apprenticeship sign-ups, introduced eight new programmes and celebrated 60 completions. Almost 350 colleagues were undertaking apprenticeships, while 496 colleagues had completed a programme during the previous three years, including 42 newly qualified nurses.
The programme offers development opportunities across a range of roles and career stages, from clinical and care-based pathways to leadership and management. It enables colleagues to build on their existing experience, gain new qualifications and take the next step in their careers.
Alongside its vocational and clinical pathways, Cygnet continues to invest in developing its future leaders. During the past year, 250 colleagues began the World Class Manager Programme, while 250 colleagues completed Team Leading and Management Apprenticeships.
Mandy Blanchard, Head of Learning and Development at Cygnet, said: “By supporting colleagues to learn and develop while working, the programme helps Cygnet build its own talent, strengthen its workforce and support the delivery of high-quality care.
“We are delighted to be shortlisted for Apprenticeship Programme of the Year at The Learning Awards. This recognition reflects the opportunities we are creating for colleagues to develop their skills, gain qualifications and build rewarding careers within Cygnet.
“Our aim is to make learning and development accessible at every stage of a colleague’s career, whether they are taking their first steps into health and social care, developing specialist clinical skills or preparing for a leadership role.
“We see the difference apprenticeships can make, not only to individual confidence and career progression, but also to the strength of our teams and the quality of care we provide. This achievement belongs to our apprentices, the managers who support them and our learning and development colleagues who help make these opportunities possible.”
The winners of The Learning Awards 2027 will be announced at the awards ceremony on 11 February 2027.