WAES Apprenticeship Programme shortlisted for Museums and Heritage Award

We’re delighted to announce that the WAES Apprenticeship Programme has been shortlisted for the Sector Impact Award at the Museums + Heritage Awards 2025! Recognised as the “Oscars of the museums world,” The global awards celebrate excellence in the heritage sector, highlighting groundbreaking projects, innovative learning programmes, and meaningful community engagement.

This year’s shortlist features cultural organisations from across the UK and 14 other countries, including Norway, Egypt, and Australia. The finalists were selected by an independent panel of judges and include renowned institutions such as Chatsworth House, the Migration Museum, and the British Museum.

“This year’s shortlist truly reflects the breadth and depth of the cultural sector and its determination to deliver first-class visitor experiences for all. We have organisations of all shapes and sizes represented from all corners of the globe and I am particularly thrilled that our new Visitor Accessibility Award has been so well received. It reflects the growing momentum to break down barriers and make cultural experiences accessible to everyone. It’s heartening to see so much excellent, inclusive work being celebrated. Bravo to everyone driving change and creating welcoming spaces for all.” – Anna Preedy, Director of Museums + Heritage Awards

The WAES Apprenticeship Programme has been recognised for its work in creating new accessible and inclusive routes into the cultural heritage sector. By providing apprentices with hands-on experience in museums, galleries, and archives, alongside a nationally recognised qualification.

This year’s awards also shine a spotlight on key industry initiatives, with categories such as Marketing & Communications Campaign of the Year, sponsored by Cabbells Ltd, and Sustainable Project of the Year, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Other notable categories include Permanent Exhibition of the Year, sponsored by Mather & Co, and the Visitor Welcome Award, sponsored by Tyg Tickets.

The Museums + Heritage Awards 2025 ceremony will take place on Thursday 15 May, bringing together professionals from across the sector to celebrate this year’s outstanding contributions. WAES is honoured to be among the shortlisted candidates and eagerly awaits the final results.

For more details and the full shortlist, visit the Museums + Heritage Awards website.