Plumb, print technician at Graphic Packaging International, who received the One to Watch prize, and Jessica Butler, print technician at Colin Cross Printers, who won the Personal Achievement award. Baker Labels was recognised with the Outstanding Employer award while mentors and tutors were also awarded from the likes of Pure Print Group and BPIF Training itself. Karly Lattimore, managing director of BPIF Training, said at the event: "Our tutors, assessors, quality, engagement, and compliance teams are the backbone of everything we do. Their dedication and care make all the difference, and today's success belongs to them as much as it does to our learners." Speaking of the organisation, Max Walkington, operations director at BPIF Training, says that apprenticeships are at the “heart” of what the organisation does, saying that they are the main route the company uses to bring new talent into print, packaging, and manufacturing. Giving his advice to businesses looking to utilise an apprenticeship programme, Walkington says: “Start by identifying the skills gaps or future roles you need to plan for, then choose apprenticeship standards that directly support those needs. Engaging early with a training provider helps ensure the programme is tailored to your equipment, workflows, and long-term plans. Finally, involve line managers from the outset. Consistent mentoring and clear expectations make a noticeable difference to apprentice progress and confidence.” Walkington says that the vast majority of BPIF Training’s apprentices progress to permanent roles, leadership positions, or further professional development pathways. “We’ve also expanded our curriculum of business programmes so we can engage with different roles across the sector,” says Walkington, adding: “In the last five years over 600 Apprentices have been through our flagship Print Operative and Print Technician apprenticeship programmes – but we need to keep going if we are to address the skills gap within the sector.” For Walkington, he believes the main focus is to ensure that employers, apprentices, and training providers all work together to help see transformations in individuals and businesses. “The print and packaging sector depends on skilled, committed people, and apprenticeships remain one of the most effective ways to secure that future talent pipeline.” Speaking of the advantages of an apprenticeship, Walkington emphasises that print and packaging are highly technical sectors, where practical skills matter just as much as theory. “Apprenticeships provide structured learning alongside real production experience, giving individuals both competence and confidence. Because the industry continues to adopt new technologies like automation, colour management systems, and finishing equipment, apprentices gain relevant, up-to-date skills that make them valuable from day one. This often leads to faster progression, better job security, and a clearer route to supervisory or technical specialist roles,” adds Walkington. Recognising Talent A company that has seen success through its apprenticeship programme is Domino Printing Sciences, which is a global provider of variable data printing solutions. The scheme which started as an entry route for school leavers at Level 2 and 3 has now evolved into a structured pathway which provides degree-level qualifications. Mark Gearing, R&D director for Print Systems at Domino, says: “Our approach is holistic. It’s not just about technical skills; apprentices rotate through different departments, gain exposure to business practices, and receive mentoring that helps 56 Issue 358 - January | February 2026 email: editor@printmonthly.co.uk ▲Charles Jarrold, CEO of the BPIF, has encouraged government initiatives that support apprenticeships Because the industry continues to adopt new technologies like automation, colour management systems, and finishing equipment, apprentices gain relevant, up-to-date skills that make them valuable from day one APPRENTICESHIPS | DAVID OSGAR
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