Double triumph for London Ambulance Service at national awards night

London Ambulance Service is celebrating a double triumph, winning two top awards for its trailblazing approach to recruiting and developing its people.

The Service won the accolades for the ‘best apprenticeship scheme’ and the ‘best organisational development or design initiative’ in the CIPD People Management Awards, held in central London last night.

Chief People Officer Simon Steward said: “We were up against strong competition from across public and private sectors, but London Ambulance Service shone for our ambitious approach to building careers and improving the workplace experience of all our people.

“This recognition seals our status as one of the most innovative employers – not just in the NHS but in the country.”

Stood out from the crowd

The Service has around 750 apprentices working on ambulances – allowing people to ‘earn as they learn’. The generous scheme has improved retention, inclusion and led to a workforce that better reflects the city it serves.

Ninety per cent of apprentices complete their qualifications, which is above the national average.

Judges said the scheme “stood out from the crowd”, highlighting the quality of the training.

Outstanding impact

The organisational development award recognised the success of the “Our LAS” programme, which saw colleagues helping to shape the organisation’s future and create a new vision and values.

The Service launched leadership programmes and a central learning hub, giving access to training and development opportunities across the workforce.

The judges were impressed by the programme’s “outstanding impact on operational outcomes”.

Putting people first

Chief Executive Jason Killens said: “From culture to careers, London Ambulance Service is proving that putting people first works.

“When colleagues feel supported and are given the opportunities to thrive, they deliver better care and that means better outcomes for our communities.

“These awards are recognition for the work done to build an environment where leadership is inclusive and everybody can make a difference to the health of our city.”

This double win builds on a growing list of accolades including London Ambulance Service ranking 3^rd in The Times Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers 2025.

London Ambulance Service has also been named the top apprenticeship employer by the Mayor of London for three years running.

More information about apprenticeship opportunities at London Ambulance Service can be found here.