Blogs
Celebrating apprenticeships
Our people have always been at the heart of everything we do. Developing skills, building confidence and supporting long-term careers isn’t just important to us, it’s part of who we are. Apprenticeships play a key role in bringing that commitment to life.
Supporting learning through the apprenticeship levy
As Learning & Development Manager, I’m proud to champion the use of our Apprenticeship Levy. It’s a fantastic initiative that removes the financial pressure often associated with learning and provides a supported platform for our teams to develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours needed across food and hospitality roles.
Practical, hands-on learning in food and hospitality
One of the things that makes apprenticeships so powerful is their practical, hands-on approach to learning. They allow people to apply new knowledge in real situations, making development engaging, relevant and confidence-building.
For many, this style of learning feels more accessible and meaningful than traditional classroom-based approaches.
Apprenticeship programmes and career progression
We currently have 35 colleagues studying on apprenticeship programmes, with four recent completions — a brilliant achievement. Even more encouraging is the impact these programmes are having, with 60% of apprentices already promoted or having progressed into the roles they originally set out to achieve.
Behind these numbers are real stories of growth and achievement.
Apprentice experience: Ollie’s story
One of our apprentices, Ollie, recently shared his reflections on his journey so far:
I’d also like to show my appreciation for the support I’ve received throughout my two years so far. The support network I have here is amazing, and colleagues such as Milda, Angus and Ian have been extremely helpful whenever I’ve needed them.
To say some of the things I’ve done as a 20-year-old in the industry — including helping achieve Green Kitchen Accreditation at multiple sites, contributing slides to a formal tender presentation, and being given the opportunity to temporarily manage a site independently — are all things I can be massively proud of and that have really helped me develop.
I’m excited for the rest of the apprenticeship.”
Ollie’s experience highlights exactly what apprenticeships are about: trust, opportunity and support, alongside meaningful, real-world development.
Celebrating apprenticeship completions
We’re also proud to celebrate colleagues such as Michaela and Jess, who are working through their apprenticeships. Their dedication, commitment and progression are a fantastic example of how structured learning can build confidence, capability and professional pride.
Strengthening teams through apprenticeships
Apprenticeships don’t just develop individuals — they strengthen our teams. They help us build a skilled, knowledgeable workforce while reinforcing a culture of learning and growth across the business.
The importance of manager support
A huge part of this success comes from the support of our managers. Those who encourage learning, create space for development and recognise progress play a vital role in helping apprentices feel motivated and valued.
That support makes a real difference to both confidence and outcomes.
Celebrating national apprenticeship week
As we mark National Apprenticeship Week, it’s a moment to reflect on what we’ve achieved together and to celebrate everyone involved — those currently studying, those who have completed their programmes, and those who support them behind the scenes.
At its core, apprenticeships reflect what BM Caterers stands for: being a company that cares about people, believes in potential and invests in learning that lasts. And that’s something we’re incredibly proud of.
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