Chesterfield Champions recognised as finalists in regional apprenticeship awards
Several Chesterfield Champions have been named finalists in the 2026 Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards, recognising the apprentices, mentors and organisations helping to develop future talent across our region.
The finalists represent a range of roles and sectors, highlighting the opportunities apprenticeships can provide while recognising the businesses and individuals supporting the next generation of the workforce.
Among those shortlisted are Dalton Roofing Ltd, DogLand and Chesterfield College Group.
Devon Bottomley of Dalton Roofing Ltd and Lilly Blythen of DogLand have both been named finalists in the Intermediate Apprentice category, while Niall Dalton of Dalton Roofing Ltd is shortlisted for Construction Apprentice.
The awards also recognise the contribution of those supporting apprentices throughout their careers. Rachel Griffiths of Dalton Roofing Ltd is a finalist for Mentor, while Dalton Roofing’s Philip Dalton and Rhys Robinson of Chesterfield College Group have both been shortlisted for Apprentice Ambassador.
Lilly Blythen said being nominated was a proud moment following her apprenticeship at DogLand. Lilly said:
“I’m so proud to have been nominated for the 2026 Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards. I’ve absolutely loved completing my apprenticeship at DogLand and have learned so much throughout the experience.
The guidance, encouragement and support I’ve received from the team has been amazing and has helped me grow in both confidence and my role. I’m really grateful to everyone at DogLand who has supported me along the way, and being nominated for this award makes the whole journey even more special.”
At Dalton Roofing, four members of the team have been shortlisted across different categories, highlighting the company’s investment in apprentices and the people supporting their development.
Devon Bottomley, said:
“Being named as a finalist means so much to me. Starting an apprenticeship was an important step towards developing my skills, building my confidence, and creating a positive future for myself and my family. I am incredibly grateful for the encouragement I have received at Dalton Roofing. Their support has helped me recognise what I am capable of, and I feel very proud that my hard work and progress have been acknowledged in this way.”
Niall Dalton, said:
“Being named as a finalist has made all that hard work feel worthwhile. I am grateful to everyone at Dalton Roofing and Leeds College of Building who has supported and encouraged me over the past two years.”
Rachel Griffiths, said:
“I am absolutely delighted to have been named as a finalist in the Mentor category. Supporting our apprentices is one of the most rewarding parts of my role, I am passionate about making sure they feel listened to, encouraged and valued throughout their development.
Every apprentice has different strengths and may face different challenges, so it is important to provide both practical guidance and personal support”
Philip Dalton, said:
“To be recognised as a finalist for Apprentice Ambassador is a real honour. Apprenticeships are incredibly important to our industry, as they give people the opportunity to learn valuable practical skills while building confidence and gaining qualifications.
At Dalton Roofing, we are passionate about investing in people and giving them the guidance, experience, and encouragement they need to develop successful careers. Having four members of our team shortlisted across different categories makes me immensely proud and demonstrates what can be achieved when a business truly supports its people.”
The recognition also reflects the important role mentors, employers and training providers play in helping apprentices build their skills and progress into successful careers.
Rhys Robinson has been shortlisted for Apprentice Ambassador of the Year. Rhys said:
“I am incredibly honoured to be shortlisted for Apprentice Ambassador of the Year for the second consecutive year.
Apprenticeships have played a significant role throughout my career, and this recognition reflects not only my own passion for apprenticeships, but also the dedication of the fantastic colleagues, employers, apprentices and partners I have the privilege of working with every day. Together, we are creating opportunities that change lives and support the growth of businesses across our region.”
Now in its fifth year, the Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards recognise achievements across the apprenticeship landscape, with 14 award categories celebrating apprentices, employers, mentors and training providers.
The awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, 1st October 2026 at Crowne Plaza Nottingham by IHG. The evening will include a drinks reception, three-course gala dinner, entertainment and the awards ceremony.
The finalists will be celebrated alongside employers and training providers whose commitment to skills and development is helping to create long-term career opportunities and strengthen the regional economy.
Chesterfield businesses of all sizes can access skills advice by emailing: info@chesterfield.co.uk or visiting www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/
Dalton Roofing Ltd, DogLand and Chesterfield College Group are among more than 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.
Find out more about our Champions network.
