Following careful consideration of the Met Office’s Red Extreme Heat Warning covering parts of England and Wales on Wednesday 24 and Thursday 25 June, and in light of the potential risks to health, well-being, and travel, VTCT Skills has taken the difficult decision to postpone the Excellence Awards ceremony at Rugby College scheduled for Thursday 25 June 2026. The warning highlights the likelihood of severe impacts, including significant health risks, “a danger to life”, travel disruption, and pressures on infrastructure.
While we were greatly looking forward to celebrating the outstanding achievements of our learners, apprentices, educators, employers, and training providers, the safety of our guests, finalists, judges, staff, and partners must remain our highest priority.
We recognise the effort and commitment that all nominees and attendees have invested in this event and appreciate that this postponement will be very disappointing. However, we believe this is the most responsible course of action given the exceptional weather conditions forecast across the wider region. A new date for the ceremony is currently being arranged potentially for the Autumn, and further details regarding revised arrangements, venue, and next steps will be communicated as soon as possible.