#NAW2026 – House of Lords reception recognises Myerscough apprenticeship award nomination

Paul McGrail, Executive Director and Assistant Principal for Apprenticeships, Skills and Employer Engagement at Myerscough College, has praised the dedication and professionalism of the College’s apprenticeship team after Myerscough was named a national finalist in the Apprenticeship & Training Awards (ATA) 2026.

“This recognition is a direct reflection of the commitment, passion and professionalism of our entire apprenticeship team,” he said.

“Their relentless focus on quality, innovation and learner success is what makes Myerscough stand out nationally. Without their dedication, this achievement simply would not be possible.”

Myerscough College has been shortlisted in the highly competitive Outstanding Apprenticeship Programme category, following a national judging process that saw more than 600 applications, with fewer than 100 organisations progressing to finalist status. The award recognises the most impactful and innovative apprenticeship programmes delivered by employers or training providers across the UK.

The College’s submission focused on its Sports Turf Apprenticeships, where Myerscough is widely recognised as the leading provider in the UK.

With a 35% national market share and 526 apprentices currently enrolled, the programme has been setting the benchmark for quality and innovation for more than 26 years. During that time, Myerscough has supported over 5,100 apprentices, helping to shape the future workforce of the £1 billion sportsturf industry.

The judges were particularly impressed by the programme’s demonstrable impact on learners and employers. Outcomes show that 97.1% of apprentices progress into positive destinations, while 100% report gaining career-enhancing skills.

Employer feedback highlights improved workforce capability, with Myerscough-trained apprentices maintaining elite environments including Premier League stadiums and championship golf courses. Notably, 77% of apprentices take on increased responsibility following completion, with 22% securing promotions, evidencing clear career progression and leadership development.

Innovation is central to the Sportsturf Apprenticeship model. Delivery is based on a pure work-based approach, with 100% of learning taking place in the workplace. Apprentices benefit from a hybrid learning environment, combining industry-expert tutor visits with digital platforms such as Microsoft Teams, interactive H5P content and e-portfolios. This approach ensures flexibility, inclusivity and personalised support, particularly important given that one in five apprentices declares additional learning needs.

The programme is also closely aligned to industry needs. Myerscough plays a leading role in national Sports Turf Trailblazer groups, helping to shape apprenticeship standards and assessment models across the sector.

The College has been instrumental in developing clear progression routes from Level 2 through to Level 5 and degree-level qualifications, including the pending Level 5 Sportsturf Technical Manager Apprenticeship, which integrates a Foundation Degree and removes financial barriers for learners and employers alike.

National finalists will be formally recognised at a parliamentary reception in February 2026, ahead of the national awards ceremony taking place at the Apprenticeships & Training Conference on 3 March 2026.

Being shortlisted places Myerscough College alongside a small group of elite providers recognised for excellence in apprenticeship delivery at a national level.

Paul McGrail added: “To be recognised nationally for our Sportsturf Apprenticeships is a tremendous achievement for the College and our employer partners. It confirms what the sector already knows – that Myerscough is leading the way in developing the skilled, future-ready workforce the industry urgently needs.”

The photo shows Paul McGrail with the Skills Minister, The RT Hon Baroness Smith of Malvern Jacqui Smith.