Stage 1 criteria

Using the Stage 1 criteria, a review panel selected 95 finalists to enter Stage 2. When reviewing submissions, panelists assigned one to five points in each of the categories below.

Local or national need
Extent to which the entrant describes local or national industry demand for more skilled workers in the relevant field.
Industry connection
Extent to which the entrant identifies quality apprenticeship programs and other potential industry partners.
Skill advancement
Extent to which the entrant identifies appropriate adult education and literacy activities needed to help adult learners prepare for apprenticeships or other industry roles with opportunities for progression.
Learner focused
Extent to which the entrant demonstrates an understanding of its prospective adult learners and their specific needs.
Team
Extent to which the entrant demonstrates the necessary skills, experience, and commitment needed to advance its pre-apprenticeship program concept.

Stage 2 criteria

Using the Stage 2 criteria, a grand-prize winner and four runners-up were selected. When reviewing submissions, the review and judging panels assigned one to five points in each of the categories below.

Local or national need
Extent to which the entrant demonstrates local or national industry demand for more skilled workers in the relevant field.
Industry connection
Extent to which the entrant has established partnership commitments to facilitate placements in apprenticeships or other industry roles with opportunities for progression.
Skill advancement
Extent to which the program will deliver adult education and literacy activities that will equip participants with the necessary academic, occupational, and workplace skills and credentials needed to enter apprenticeships or other industry roles with opportunities for progression.
Learner focused
Extent to which the program reflects the interests and needs of the target adult learners, such as through tailored outreach strategies and support services.
Team
Extent to which the entrant demonstrates the necessary skills, resources, and commitment to establish and deliver a high-quality pre-apprenticeship program beyond the challenge.