Lantra and Landex have extended the nomination deadline for the Land-Based and Environment Learner (LBEL) Awards.

Earlier this year, the LBEL Awards opened for nominations, celebrating achievements across the sector.  This annual event is coordinated by the accreditation body, Lantra, and the ‘Land Based Colleges and Universities Aspiring to Excellence’ organisation, Landex.

On 27 November, the National Conference Centre in Solihull will host this year’s awards ceremony. The event will recognise learners, apprentices and researchers in fields ranging from horticulture and arboriculture to veterinary nursing, landscape and environmental conservation.

The organisers have decided, due to a record number of nominations, to extend the nomination deadline to 11:59 pm on Sunday 22 June.

From private trainers to university programs, the ceremony in November will honour top performers at every level, including apprenticeships (Levels 2-3) and higher education (Levels 4-7). Postgraduate students will also have a dedicated Master’s and Doctoral category. There will be additional overall awards for: Research Student of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, Overall Winner and Runners Up.

Though beyond celebrating individual students’ achievements, the LBEL Awards hope to attract new talent into the land-based and environmental sectors.

Head of communications at Lantra, Clegg Bamber, says: “The purpose of the LBEL Awards is to shine a spotlight on the brilliant talent and dedication of those in the land-based and environment sector. We have seen some brilliant nominations so far, and recognising this time of year where colleges, training providers and employers are busy with assessments and preparing students for exams.

“Lantra and Landex are extending the nominations deadline to ensure everyone has enough time to submit good quality nominations, ensuring learners and apprentices are recognised for their efforts and commitment to their studies.”

Nominations can be submitted online via Lantra’s website, as the quicker, more sustainable option. Alternatively, paper forms can be requested by emailing lbels@lantra.co.uk.