The Institute of Carpenters is opening nominations for a new chapter of one of its best-known accolades. The Rainleaf Trophy — previously awarded through the IOC’s 3rd Year Student Award — has been relaunched as our Apprentice of the Year Award, open to apprentices at any stage of their carpentry, joinery or shopfitting training.
The change reflects how apprenticeships are trained and assessed today. Where the original competition was built around a fixed three-year college route, modern apprenticeship standards now run on variable timelines. For the first time, nominations can come directly from employers as well as colleges — recognising that outstanding apprentices are shaped on site as much as in the classroom.
Who can be nominated?
Any apprentice currently enrolled on a recognised carpentry, joinery, or shopfitting/interior contracting apprenticeship — at any stage of their programme. Nominations can come from colleges, employers, or jointly from both. Because outstanding apprentices are shaped on site just as much as in the classroom.
What are judges looking for?
Nominations are assessed against five criteria:
- Technical skill and craftsmanship
- Progress and development throughout the apprenticeship
- Attitude, reliability, and conduct on site or in the workshop
- Commitment shown through personal initiative beyond course requirements
- A compelling case for why this apprentice should be Apprentice of the Year
How to nominate
It takes just a few minutes online. Visit Institute of Carpenters · Rainleaf Trophy to submit a nomination on behalf of an apprentice you teach or employ. Nominations close 31 December 2026.
About the Rainleaf Trophy
The Rainleaf Trophy is a hand-carved award made from a selection of English hardwoods, held by the winner for twelve months alongside a signed IOC certificate. It has been supported by IOC Director Martin Corton since the award’s introduction in 2020.
