We are absolutely thrilled to share that our founder, Phil Warnock, has been officially announced as the WINNER of the Outstanding Contribution to Apprenticeships & Training (Individual) award at the Apprenticeship & Training Awards 2026!
This achievement is a testament to Phil’s dedication to improving apprenticeship opportunities across England, from championing high-quality standards, to influencing national skills policy, to personally mentoring young people and supporting employers to create meaningful development pathways. His impact reaches far beyond Ginger Nut Training, shaping the wider apprenticeship landscape for over a decade.
A huge thank you to our brilliant Ginger Nut Training team whose passion and commitment make achievements like this possible. Phil’s leadership may have been honoured, but the success belongs to every tutor, administrator, quality assurer, engagement colleague, committee member, advisory governor and others in the Ginger team who support our mission every day.
We remain more committed than ever to helping people improve their lives through apprenticeships — and this recognition is a proud moment for the entire Ginger Nut team.
Why this award matters
Phil’s journey began as an employer who saw first-hand how apprenticeships can transform lives and businesses. That experience led to the creation of Ginger Nut Training and a decade of sector contribution: supporting hundreds of learners and employers each year; shaping standards and policy with national bodies; and championing inclusion and social mobility through initiatives that remove barriers for care-experienced young people.
What others say about Phil’s contribution
“Phil Warnock, founder of Ginger Nut Training, has made a significant and sustained contribution to the advancement of apprenticeships and skills in the UK for over a decade […] Phil exemplifies the qualities celebrated by this award: sustained impact, visionary leadership, and transformative influence on apprenticeships and training.”
— Katy Dorman, Governor, Ginger Nut Training
“I am delighted to offer my full support for Phil Warnock’s nomination […] In summary, Phil Warnock has made an outstanding and sustained contribution to apprenticeships and training in England. His vision, compassion and relentless advocacy have improved not only the system itself but, more importantly, the lives of countless young people.”
— Martin Kelly OBE, Corporate Director for Children’s Services and Education, City of York Council
“Under Phil’s mentorship […] that opportunity transformed my life. Phil didn’t just give me a job, he gave me confidence, purpose, and the belief that learning never stops.”
— Christopher Clowes, Commercial Director, HC Media Group (former Ginger Nut learner)
Our commitment going forward
This recognition renews our focus on delivering high-quality, inclusive apprenticeships that meet employer needs and help learners thrive. We’ll continue to:
- Champion quality and achievement across our programmes;
- Work with national partners to keep standards relevant and robust;
- Remove barriers so more people can access opportunities that improve their lives.
Thank you
To our learners, employers, partners and colleagues — thank you for your support and trust. If you’d like to explore how apprenticeships can help your organisation grow, or how we can support your career journey, get in touch with the Ginger Nut Training team today.