Farming apprentices have less than a week to stake their claim to be named the Norfolk Agricultural Apprentice of the Year.

The competition – launched last year by the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association, Easton and Otley College and agricultural co-operative Fram Farmers – is open to all apprentices with a Norfolk employer who are studying for any agriculturally-related apprenticeship.

The deadline for entries is April 27 before judging takes place on May 16. The winner receives a trophy, £100 and two tickets to The Royal Norfolk Show, where the prizes will be presented.

Nicola Currie, the apprenticeship ambassador for the college, said: 'We are all keen to promote the fact that farming is a wonderful industry to work in and apprenticeships are a real alternative to university and A-levels.

'Last year's winners were shining exemplars of what can be achieved by following the apprenticeship educational path and I'm sure the entrants from this year will be just as impressive.'

Mark Nicholas, show and programmes director at the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association, said: 'As an organisation we are constantly looking at ways of promoting the exciting career opportunities that are available within our fantastic industry.

'Therefore we are proud to stand side by side with all of the partners involved in this competition that aims to shine a light on these fantastic qualifications that are becoming more and more popular with both students and farmers.'

Fram Farmers chief executive Richard Anscombe, said: 'Fram Farmers is delighted to sponsor this award as we are committed to helping highlight the benefits of apprenticeships in Norfolk so that our industry will have the skilled labour force it needs – both now and in the future.'

• For more information about how to enter the competition, contact nicola.currie@eastonotley.ac.uk.