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Emma Bridgewater Launches Unique Ceramics Apprenticeship
23 Mar
Summary
- A new ceramics apprenticeship is launching to address an industry-wide skills shortage.
- The initiative is the first of its kind since the YTS ended in 1990.
- Several prominent pottery firms are collaborating on the 18-month program.
A significant skills gap is emerging in the ceramics industry, driven by an aging workforce and a lack of younger entrants. James Munro, head of specialist production at Emma Bridgewater, highlighted this challenge, noting it's a major concern alongside energy prices.
To address this, Emma Bridgewater is launching an innovative 18-month apprenticeship program, the first since the Youth Training Scheme concluded in 1990. This initiative is set to commence in April.
The program will involve collaboration with other leading manufacturers, including 1882, Susan Rose China, Steelite, Phoenix Tiles, and Burleigh. This partnership aims to ensure the preservation of essential craft skills for the future.
Workers like Holly Chevin and Mark Hall expressed their support, emphasizing the necessity of attracting young talent to prevent the extinction of these specialized skills. The scheme is seen as vital for the industry's long-term sustainability.
