National Apprenticeship Week 2026 - Skills for Life
In Conversation with our Apprentices
National Apprenticeship Week (9-15 February, England and Wales & 2-6 March, Scotland) is all about opening doors, building skills, and creating real opportunities for people to grow, learn and build lasting careers. At Fox’s Burton’s Companies, apprenticeships play a vital role in how we develop talent across our bakeries and teams, combining hands-on experience, learning on the job and long-term progression.
To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, we spoke to two of our engineering apprentices, Harrison and Ola, about their journeys into engineering, what their day-to-day looks like, and what they’ve learned along the way.
Harrison, Engineering Apprentice
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your current role, and how you got into it?
My name is Harrison, I’m 19 years old and currently in my third year of a food and drink maintenance engineering apprenticeship. I applied straight from school as I’ve always preferred a hands-on way of learning rather than staying in full-time education.
What made you interested in engineering as a career?
I studied engineering at school, which sparked my interest from an early age and made me want to pursue it as a career.
What does a typical day look like for you as an engineering apprentice?
Every day is different. I work on a wide range of machinery, carrying out maintenance, fault-finding and repairs, which keeps the role interesting and challenging.
What have you enjoyed most about the apprenticeship so far?
The hands-on experience and learning a wide range of new skills while working on real equipment.
What skills have you developed since starting?
I’ve developed strong teamwork and communication skills, alongside technical knowledge in identifying faults, problem-solving and carrying out effective repairs.
What’s been the biggest challenge and how have you overcome it?
Adjusting from school to the workplace environment was the biggest challenge. Through hard work, determination and support from my colleagues, I gained confidence and settled into the role.
Is there a project or task you’re particularly proud of?
I’m especially proud of the portfolio I’ve built at college, as it reflects the skills and knowledge I’ve developed throughout the apprenticeship.
How has the apprenticeship changed your confidence or career goals?
My confidence has increased. Working across different shifts and maintaining a wide variety of machinery has helped me grow professionally and feel more capable in my role.
Would you recommend this route into engineering?
Absolutely. It’s practical, hands-on and you gain valuable experience while earning as you learn.
Aleksandra (Ola), Engineering Apprentice
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your current role?
My name is Aleksandra, but my close friends and family call me Ola. I’ve lived in the UK for 13 years and during that time I’ve worked in a variety of roles, from warehouse work to data analytics. I’m currently in my third year of an engineering apprenticeship here at FBC and also attending college in Huddersfield.
What made you apply for the apprenticeship?
I was already working at FBC as a weekend shift team leader when I heard about an internal recruitment opportunity for one engineering apprentice. I thought about it carefully, and after strong encouragement from colleagues and my family, I decided to apply. I was absolutely delighted to be selected.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Every day is different, and that’s the beauty of it. Some days I’m at college studying and sitting exams, other days I’m at work, hands-on and learning under the supervision of our mentors.
No two days are the same. We work on different machines, solve different problems, and take on different tasks. We also have a great team, so there’s a lot of fun along the way too.
How has the apprenticeship helped your confidence?
My confidence has grown a lot since starting, thanks to the support from my college teachers and colleagues at work. I truly believe that no matter your age, gender or nationality, you can make it happen if you’re determined.
What’s been the biggest challenge for you?
It hasn’t all been easy. There’s a huge amount of knowledge and skills to learn, and the exams are tough. My biggest challenge has been language, as English isn’t my first language, which makes everything more difficult. But I’ve kept going and learned how to manage it.
Is there a project you’re particularly proud of?
One of the most satisfying projects at college was building an air engine. It was extremely complex and required a high level of precision.
What advice would you give to new apprentices?
Never switch off. There’s no time for it. Use your time wisely, because you learn something every minute. Your future self will thank you.
Applications are now open
Applications for our engineering apprenticeship programme are now open. If you’re looking for a hands-on career, real-world experience and the chance to earn while you learn, find out more and apply now via the links below: