Specsavers scoops three apprenticeship awards

Specsavers scoops three apprenticeship awards

Specsavers has claimed multiple honours at the 2025 Regional and National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards,

“Underlining its position as a leader in vocational training.”

At the regional awards, the organisation won large apprenticeship employer of the year, while Katie House received the apprentice of the year award. Dena Wyatt, Specsavers head of apprenticeships, was named skills champion for her outstanding contribution to championing skills.  This then took the team to the National awards which saw them awarded an additional two honours, large apprenticeship employer of the year and Ms House winning apprentice of the year nationally.

‘The highlight of this apprenticeship is actually seeing my development grow, I have been able to be a part of some many amazing things because of it. I attended the national apprenticeship week and am part of a next generation forum where my voice is heard for the future of Specsavers.’ says Ms House.

‘It still feels surreal, it is such an amazing category and just to be nominated and shortlisted was a prize enough for me. But when they announced my name regionally and nationally, it felt amazing. I have my awards in my home office, so I am reminded everyday what apprenticeships have done for me.’

She adds: ‘Apprenticeships have changed my life for the better and without them I wouldn’t be where I am today. Apprenticeships are for everyone, and they aren’t talked about enough.’

Helen Davies, People Director – Optics at Specsavers, says: ‘Congratulations to Dena Wyatt and the team. The accolades keep coming but there is no greater confirmation of everything this team do than meeting our apprentices as you visit our practices.

‘Listening to our apprentices describe the difference the programme has made to them is powerful and heartening, our apprenticeship scheme really does open doors and change lives’

She adds: ‘We are incredibly proud to have been recognised with multiple accolades across these prestigious awards. Apprenticeships and skills development are at the heart of our business, and these wins reflect the passion and commitment of our people.’

Specsavers’ apprenticeship programme supports hundreds of learners across the UK, supporting colleagues to build long-term careers in the sector. The programme has been rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted, further cementing its reputation as one of the country’s leading vocational training schemes.

‘This recognition means a lot to me and the whole team. I started out as an apprentice myself, so I’ve always felt a strong connection to what apprenticeships can offer. Championing them beyond my day-to-day role has been incredibly rewarding, especially knowing it’s helped others take their first steps and contributed to shaping the future of vocational learning.,’ says Ms Wyatt.