Apprenticeships at Bakers
At Baker Labels, apprenticeships are more than a route into work. They are a way to build confidence, develop skills for life, and create long-term careers within a modern, evolving print and packaging industry.
As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, we’re proud to continue the conversation we’ve shared in previous years. Including our Apprenticeship Week 2025 and Skills for Life: Life After the Apprenticeship Programme blogs. This year, we’re focusing on the full journey – from those just starting out as apprentices, to those who have completed their programmes and are now thriving in permanent roles.
Starting the Journey: Our Current Apprentices
Through apprenticeships, we’re welcoming a new generation of talent. Bringing fresh perspectives, new energy, and a more inclusive future for print.
Our current apprentices (Lola, Izelda, and Hayden) are all at different stages of their development. However, all of them are already building confidence and capability within the business.
Lola
Lola has been surprised by just how diverse and forward-looking the print and packaging industry really is. From the wide range of customers we work with, to the variety of products, machinery, and processes involved. Her apprenticeship has opened her eyes to how much goes on behind the scenes in print and packaging.
Izelda
Izelda’s apprenticeship has strengthened her understanding of print processes, the wider market, and commercial decision-making. As her confidence has grown, she has begun taking part in customer communications related to the work she is responsible for. Applying what she has learned in a practical, supported way.
Hayden
Hayden joined Baker Labels after attending our Apprenticeship Open Day 2025, where he was drawn to the welcoming, close-knit environment. Working within the BakPac division, he has enjoyed hands-on training on machinery and learning about flexible packaging — with the reassurance that support is always there when he needs it.
Growing Into the Industry: Life After an Apprenticeship
With the right support in place, apprentices at Baker Labels don’t just start strong – they continue to grow long after their training ends.
Charlotte and Rokas both completed their apprenticeships within the last year, and their journeys show where an apprenticeship at Baker Labels can lead.
Charlotte joined the business as a Despatch Administrator apprentice, initially expecting to support the despatch function alongside the wider office team. As her apprenticeship progressed, her responsibilities steadily increased – reflecting both her growing confidence and the trust placed in her. Within months, Charlotte was independently managing the despatch function, coordinating daily operations and ensuring everything ran smoothly. She later expanded her role into customer service, taking on order processing and developing strong communication and organisational skills.
Charlotte
Charlotte’s journey highlights how apprenticeships at Baker Labels are designed to grow with the individual. As her skills developed, so did her role, allowing her to take on new challenges and progress organically within the business.
Rokas
Rokas was drawn to an apprenticeship for the opportunity to learn a practical skill while working hands-on with modern technology. Through his apprenticeship, he built a strong foundation in print processes and materials, preparing him to move onto operating our HP Indigo digital presses with confidence.
What This Means for Baker Labels
Apprenticeships don’t just shape individuals – they shape our business.
In an industry that has traditionally been older and male-dominated, apprenticeships help us move forward by encouraging diversity, inclusion, and new ways of thinking. By giving young people a genuine opportunity to learn, grow, and be trusted, we’re building a stronger, more representative workforce for the future of print.
We were incredibly proud to be named BPIF Outstanding Employer of the Year, recognising the environment, support, and opportunities we provide for apprentices to succeed. It’s an achievement that belongs as much to our apprentices as it does to the wider Baker Labels team who support them every day. Lola and Izelda were also recognised at the BPIF Training Awards, each receiving Highly Commended awards in their nominated categories – a fantastic achievement that reflects their dedication and potential.
Looking Ahead
Whether an apprentice goes on to work in production, customer service, technical roles, leadership, or somewhere entirely different, the skills gained through an apprenticeship last far beyond the programme itself.
This National Apprenticeship Week, we’re proud of every apprentice who has been part of Baker Labels – past, present, and future. Their growth, confidence, and achievements continue to shape our culture, our people, and the future of our business.
If you’re considering an apprenticeship, know this: print is modern, evolving, and full of opportunity and at Baker Labels, your potential will be supported every step of the way.
The BPIF (British Printing Industries Federation) is the UK’s leading trade association for print.
Explore Careers in Print
Curious about what a career in the print industry could look like?