LCB and BAM Partnership Recognised at National Apprenticeship Awards
March 5, 2026Local construction training collaboration receives national commendation
A partnership between Leeds College of Building (LCB) and construction company BAM UK & Ireland has been awarded ‘Highly Commended’ in the ‘Best Partnership in Training’ category at the 2026 Apprenticeship & Training Awards. The awards celebrate organisations making significant contributions to apprenticeships and workforce development across the UK.
Details of the Award and Competition
The Apprenticeship & Training Awards are a prominent event in the education sector, recognising employer-provider partnerships that deliver outstanding outcomes in apprenticeship and skills development. This year’s awards received over 650 nominations, with 94 organisations shortlisted, including training providers, employers, colleges, and universities.
The top award in the category was won by McDonald’s and Lifetime Training, with the LCB and BAM partnership receiving the ‘Highly Commended’ recognition.
About the LCB and BAM Partnership
The collaboration between Leeds College of Building and BAM began in 2017 with a bespoke block-release apprenticeship programme designed to meet BAM’s specific needs. The initial cohort consisted of 40 apprentices. Since then, the programme has expanded to include qualifications aligned with Level 4 Civil Engineering Senior Technician, Quantity Surveying, and Construction Site Supervisor standards.
Key developments in the partnership include:
- The introduction of a BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering Site Management Degree Apprenticeship, accredited by Leeds Beckett University. This was the first degree apprenticeship offered at LCB’s University Centre.
- The extension of progression pathways, such as the Construction Quantity Surveyor Degree Apprenticeship, validated by London South Bank University and accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building.
Growth and Impact
The partnership has contributed to significant growth in LCB’s higher education provision. The first pilot degree apprenticeship in 2022 enrolled nine students, including two female apprentices. By September 2025, the number of degree apprentices had increased to over 230, representing a growth rate of 195% over three years.
Chris Tunningley, Assistant Principal for Apprenticeships & Higher Education at LCB, commented on the achievement, highlighting the national recognition and the ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality apprenticeships that benefit students and the construction industry.
Further Information
For more details on the Apprenticeship & Training Awards finalists, visit FE Week. Information about the construction and built environment apprenticeships offered by Leeds College of Building can be found on their official website.
