For two decades, UCS College Group and Mulberry have worked side-by-side to develop skilled craftspeople, preserve traditional manufacturing expertise and create meaningful career opportunities across Somerset.
This year marks 20 years since the launch of the Leather Craftsperson Apprenticeship programme, a pioneering partnership that has helped more than 100 apprentices build rewarding careers while supporting the future of British luxury manufacturing.
Since the programme began in 2006, the partnership has been driven by a shared commitment to investing in people. Together, Mulberry and UCS College Group have created a pathway for local learners to gain specialist skills, industry-recognised qualifications and hands-on experience within one of Britain’s most iconic luxury brands.
Over the years, apprentices have developed expertise in leather cutting, stitching, inking, finishing and quality assessment, learning how a luxury leather product is created from concept to completion. Alongside technical skills, they have built confidence, communication, teamwork and problem-solving abilities that continue to support their careers long after completing the programme.
The impact of the partnership can be seen not only in the number of apprentices who have graduated, but also in the careers they have gone on to build.
One such success story is former apprentice Katie Trimmings, who completed her Leather Craftsperson Apprenticeship in 2023 and now works within Mulberry’s Industrialisation team, helping to train and develop the next generation of craftspeople.
Mulberry’s apprenticeship journey began in 2006 when we partnered with Bridgwater College, now part of UCS College Group, to create a pathway into leather goods manufacturing for local people. The partnership was built on a shared commitment to preserving traditional craft skills in Somerset while creating meaningful career opportunities.
One of the greatest rewards is seeing apprentices graduate. When they first join us, they are developing their skills and confidence, and by the time they complete the programme, the transformation can be remarkable. It’s also inspiring to see former apprentices go on to build successful careers across the business.
Jen Reid | Talent & Development Partner at Mulberry
The partnership has continued to evolve to meet the needs of both learners and industry. In 2020, Mulberry became the lead employer in developing the Level 2 Leather Craftsperson Standard, helping create an industry-recognised qualification now used beyond the business itself.
Most recently, Mulberry welcomed four new Leather Craftsperson apprentices, including, for the first time within the current qualification framework, a placement within the Development Team at The Rookery. The addition reflects the ongoing development of the programme, giving apprentices access to an even broader range of experiences and career pathways.
Beyond apprenticeship delivery, the partnership also supports site visits, careers events, employer engagement activities and wider industry collaboration, helping inspire future talent and strengthen links between education and employment.
Our partnership with Mulberry demonstrates the long-term value of apprenticeships. For 20 years, we have worked together to develop talent, support careers and preserve specialist skills that are vital to the region’s heritage and economy.
We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved together and look forward to continuing this journey in the years ahead.
Laira Pearson | Assistant Principal of Apprenticeships at UCS College Group
As the partnership enters its third decade, the focus remains firmly on the future.
While technology and industry continue to evolve, the importance of developing people, nurturing talent and preserving craftsmanship remains unchanged. Together, UCS College Group and Mulberry are committed to ensuring that future generations have the opportunity to learn valuable skills, gain recognised qualifications and build rewarding careers.
More than 20 years on, this partnership continues to prove what can be achieved when education and industry work together with a shared vision: creating opportunity, investing in talent and crafting futures for generations to come.
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Interested in an apprenticeship with UCS College Group?
Discover how our apprenticeship programmes help learners develop real-world skills, gain industry-recognised qualifications and build successful careers. Find out more about apprenticeships at UCS College Group: https://www.ucscollegegroup.ac.uk/study/apprenticeships/