06/03/2026
HIYED BACKS APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AT 2026 MAKE YOUR MARK AWARDS!
Hiyed CIC has been confirmed as sponsor of the Apprentice of the Year category at the 2026 Make Your Mark Awards, underlining its commitment to supporting young people and developing future talent across Aycliffe Business Park.
The annual awards, organised by Resolution Media and Publishing on behalf of Aycliffe Business Park, celebrate the individuals and organisations helping to drive growth, innovation and opportunity across one of the UK’s largest business parks.
The Apprentice of the Year category recognises outstanding apprentices who demonstrate commitment, progress and real impact within their workplace.
Hiyed CIC - which has recently expanded to the Lifeline Community Hub in Aycliffe town centre - has built a strong reputation for working with young people across County Durham and the Tees Valley, helping them develop confidence, skills and pathways into employment.
Its sponsorship of the Apprentice of the Year category reflects a natural alignment between the organisation’s mission and the values behind the Make Your Mark Awards.
Tracy Fee, founder and director of Hiyed CIC, said supporting apprentices was central to the organisation’s work.
“We’re absolutely delighted to sponsor the Apprentice of the Year category at the 2026 Make Your Mark Awards,” said Tracy.
“Supporting young people into meaningful careers is at the heart of everything we do at Hiyed CIC, and apprenticeships play a vital role in helping individuals build confidence, develop practical skills and realise their potential.
“Aycliffe Business Park offers incredible opportunities for young people starting out in their careers, and this award celebrates the commitment and determination that apprentices show every day.
“We’re proud to recognise their achievements and support the businesses investing in the next generation of talent.”
The Apprentice of the Year award is open to apprentices working for businesses based within the Newton Aycliffe area who have either completed their apprenticeship during 2025 or are currently undertaking one.
Judges will be looking for evidence of strong attitude and behaviours, alongside clear examples of how the apprentice has added value to their employer.
Aycliffe Business Park Community board member Paul Hind welcomed Hiyed’s involvement and the continued focus on skills and workforce development across the park.
“Aycliffe Business Park has always been a place where young people can build rewarding careers,” he said.
“Apprenticeships provide a vital route into employment and help businesses develop the skilled workforce they need for the future.
“It’s fantastic to see Hiyed supporting this category because they understand the importance of investing in young people and helping them succeed.
“The Apprentice of the Year award highlights the positive impact apprentices make across the park and celebrates the businesses committed to developing local talent.”
With entries open for the 2026 awards, the Apprentice of the Year category promises to once again showcase the ambition, talent and potential that continues to strengthen Aycliffe Business Park’s reputation as a centre for skills and opportunity.
The nomination deadline is 5pm on Monday 9th March. See all the online entry forms here: https://aycliffebusinesspark.co.uk/awards/
Don’t miss the chance to be part of the business park’s most anticipated events of the year.
Sponsorship opportunities also available. Email [email protected] for more details.