Please see our latest news story from one of our Industry Approved Providers, BPIF.
In industries defined by innovation, precision, and constant evolution, one factor continues to stand out as the driving force behind its success: people. This year’s BPIF Training graduation ceremony celebrated its Level 7 Senior Leader and Level 5 Operations Manager apprenticeships. The event served as a powerful reminder of just how essential apprenticeships are in nurturing the next generation of talent, regardless of age or existing education.
The event was filled with pride as graduates, employers, tutors, and industry leaders came together to celebrate the achievements of individuals who have balanced study, work, and home life with remarkable resilience. Their success represents far more than personal accomplishment — it reflects the enduring strength and adaptability of this sector, even in the face of significant economic pressures.
Apprenticeships: Strengthening Skills in a Changing Industry
As businesses continue to navigate tight margins, shifting customer demands, and long-term skills shortages, apprenticeships remain a cornerstone of capability-building. BPIF Training works with a broad range of organisations, providing the essential skills, innovation, and leadership the sector needs to thrive.
This commitment has driven ongoing modernisation: expanded digital learning, refreshed programmes, and the delivery of more apprenticeship standards than ever before. The result? A stronger talent pipeline, better prepared to take on the challenges and opportunities ahead.
For many graduates, this is just the start of their journey. Having experienced the transformational power of work-based learning, many will go on to support and mentor new apprentices, continuing the cycle of growth and development that strengthens the entire sector.
Recognising Excellence: Peer Recognition Award
The Peer Recognition Award celebrates apprentices who make a real difference to those around them — supporting, motivating, and inspiring their peers through teamwork, respect, and collaboration.
These are the individuals others turn to for advice, reassurance, or a helping hand, creating a positive and supportive learning environment. Being acknowledged by fellow learners is a high honour, reflecting the real impact they have on others’ experiences.
This year, the award shines a spotlight on the apprentices who have earned the respect and admiration of their peers. This year’s winner was Sam Martin from Falconer Print who completed the Level 3 Supply Chain Practitioner apprenticeship, gaining a distinction overall!
Ben Townsend, Operations Director at Falconer Print commented:
‘Sam started this apprenticeship with an enthusiasm to learn and develop which he maintained all the way through his time. If anything, this grew with each assignment he completed where his confidence continued to grow. He creates a positive team culture by doing this, but also by using his learning to step into any role within the business to either fill a void, or just to help out when the time is needed. This has been invaluable to us as a business these last 6 months, and has really shown his versatility by using his knowledge learnt from doing this apprenticeship. I honestly think Sam is showing signs of a natural leader even at such a young age. He communicates really well, either in person where he has a natural ability to connect with people of all ages, and walks of life. He utilises the form of emails really well also, and isn't afraid to speak his mind and ask questions (another example of him wanting to learn). Sam has a great future ahead of him!’
Recognising Excellence: Outstanding Employer of the Year
A highlight of the event was the announcement of the Outstanding Employer of the Year Award. This award celebrates employers who go far beyond simply offering apprenticeship positions. It recognises businesses that provide meaningful, supported learning environments where apprentices can develop confidence, sharpen skills, and build long-term careers.
This year’s shortlisted organisations were:
- Graphic Packaging International
- Baker Labels
Baker Labels was named the winner, recognised for its long-standing dedication to nurturing apprentice talent since 2018. With a consistently impressive 80% achievement rate over the past three years, the company has embedded apprenticeships at the heart of its workforce strategy. Their commitment extends into communities too — hosting open days, promoting opportunities on social media, and championing careers to young people, parents, and schools.
Graphic Packaging International was highly commended for its strong apprenticeship support and commitment to developing future talent.
The Future Starts Here
This year’s graduates leave with new skills, recognised qualifications, and a clear sense of pride in what they’ve achieved. They are the next generation of leaders, technicians, and innovators — ready to shape the future of a variety of industries.
And if the energy, determination, and talent shown at this year’s ceremony are anything to go by, the future looks exceptionally bright!
