director of Print Scotland, said: “With this new stream of print apprentices present today we can be cautiously optimistic about the future of our industry. “The print sector has significantly enhanced its support for apprentices in recent years and is definitely seeing the benefit of this forward-looking approach for employers and individuals. We urge the Scottish government and its agencies to reinforce our success by continuing to invest significantly to allow us to create more opportunities for our young people.” Another company which has seen the benefit of apprenticeships is Bishops Printers, a family-run business which has been running for over 40 years. Paul Cull, production director at the company says: “I want apprenticeships to be a key part of our approach to building the future of print.” Cull adds: “They allow us to bring fresh talent into the business, develop practical skills in real-world production, and ensure that the next generation of print professionals are well-prepared to meet evolving industry demands. I’d like to see an apprentice in every production department.” Cull’s comments highlight the need for the industry to work together to address a challenge that is affecting all businesses now and will only grow as an issue if not addressed soon. Similar to other awards, Bishops Printers has also seen success for both its apprentices and mentors, with Cull adding: “Our most recent experience has been incredibly successful in both nurturing talent and re-energising our team. “Lavinia, our print apprentice, is already running a HEIDELBERG XL75 independently and Keith, her mentor, was recognised at the Chichester & Portsmouth Apprenticeship awards with a commendation. It has helped us to foster a culture of mentorship, with experienced staff guiding new entrants and giving them renewed purpose for coming to work each day.” According to Bishops Printers, Lavinia “Vinnie” Tewkesbury quickly became a “catalyst for change” as she come into the business with a strong work ethic and “insatiable curiosity”. Speaking about the experience of mentoring Tewkesbury, Kieth Kirby, one of Bishop’s most experienced printers, said he didn’t expect the mentoring experience to be as gratifying as it was. “It’s the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done,” says Kirby, who adds: “Vinnie is fantastic. She challenges me, she listens, she asks questions, and she makes me laugh. She’s changed the atmosphere in the print room.” Fellow mentor, Simon White echoes Kirby’s comments, adding: Having someone like Vinnie around makes you look again at everything you know and why it matters. It’s reminded us just how much we have to offer.” Tewkesbury joined Bishops as a folder operator leading her to the print room where she expanded her skills and knowledge. “There’s so much to learn. Every shift there’s something new. I always knew I didn't want a desk job, but it never occurred to me that I could be a printer. I’m on my feet all day, which I enjoy, and it’s busy – which is great. Keith & Simon are so enthusiastic about teaching me – it makes such a difference,” says Tewkesbury. Cull says that Bishop’s aim is to create a self-sustaining model of learning and leadership with the next intake targeting 17- to 18-year-olds in order to support young people who might not see a place for themselves in manufacturing. Speaking of the advantages of an apprenticeship, Cull says: “Apprenticeships give individuals practical skills and industry knowledge that they can’t get anywhere else, so they’re highly valued. “They provide a foundation for career growth, opening doors to specialised roles in production, finishing, and management. Beyond technical skills, apprentices also develop problem-solving abilities and workplace experience that make them highly employable across the sector.” When it comes to advice, Cull says to invest time in structured support and pair apprentices with the right mentors. “View apprenticeships as a long-term investment. Retaining and developing talent benefits both the individual and the wider business,” adds Cull. From the many voices and examples we have looked at in this feature, it is clear that apprenticeships are an effective and important part of the industry in order to keep nurturing talent and developing the next generation of printers. As Cull puts it: “Apprenticeships aren’t just about training. They’re about building confidence, fostering creativity, and securing the future of our industry.” 58 Issue 358 - January | February 2026 email: editor@printmonthly.co.uk According to the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), the number of young people starting on new apprenticeships has fallen by over 40% since the 2017 training levy was introduced Factoid Apprenticeships aren’t a quick fix – they’re about building sustainable talent for the future ▼ [L to R] Keith Kirby showing Lavinia Tewkesbury the ropes at Bishops Printers APPRENTICESHIPS | DAVID OSGAR
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