Since 2024, training, education, and employment have all been important topics discussed in the world of business following the election of the current Labour government, which promised to improve opportunities for young people. Recently the government has pledged a £725m package of reforms to the apprenticeship system in order to tackle youth unemployment and improve economic growth. Kier Starmer and The Labour Party have put an emphasis on offering apprenticeships for under 25s in areas like AI, hospitality, and engineering. Add to this the increasing cost of university, which has been emphasised far more in the last two decades, and it is clear to see why an apprenticeship could seem far more appealing. “Why would you go to university when you can do an apprenticeship, and someone else would pay for your degree?” said Brandon Farley, a trainee solicitor, in a recent interview with Sky News. However, the new focus on apprenticeships does come with negatives, especially when many industries are struggling to attract talent in the first place, as well as an emphasis on only those under 25. Recently The Printing Charity extended the age bracket of its Rising Star Awards to 18 to 35, acknowledging that there are many people who want to develop their careers when under the age of 40. In reaction to the government's Autumn Budget, Charles Jarrold, chief executive officer of the British Printing Industries Federation (BPIF) said: “The commitment to fully fund SME apprenticeships for under 25s has the potential to make a difference, but SMEs need clarity on eligibility and implementation before they can plan with confidence.” With many questions still remaining, but a clear need for young and talented people in the industry, let’s take a look at the advantages of apprentices, and the best way you utilise the scheme for yourself or your business. Learning the Trade When it comes to training and apprenticeships, one organisation which has had a clear influence in the printing industry is the BPIF, especially its subsidiary, BPIF Training. Recently the organisation celebrated numerous prize winners and graduates at its yearly ceremony where individuals from the Level 5 Operations/Departmental Manager and Level 7 Senior Leader apprenticeship programmes attended. Award winners for 2025 included Kristian As the government continues to put an emphasis on getting young people into work, and the print industry tackles the challenges of an aging workforce, we ask how important apprenticeships are in 2026? EMBRACING APPRENTICESHIPS IN PRINT APPRENTICESHIPS | DAVID OSGAR 55 www.printmonthly.co.uk Issue 358 - January | February 2026
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