A 20-year partnership in Somerset is helping keep traditional leatherworking alive.
The collaboration between UCS College Group and Mulberry has produced more than 100 apprentices through its leather craftsperson apprenticeship programme, which began in 2006.
The scheme offers training in leather cutting, stitching, inking, finishing, and quality assessment, equipping apprentices with the skills needed in luxury manufacturing.
Jen Reid, talent and development partner at Mulberry, said: "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."
Earlier this year, four new apprentices joined the programme, including, for the first time within the current qualification framework, a placement within Mulberry’s Development Team at The Rookery, broadening the experience offered.
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In 2020, Mulberry became the lead employer in the development of the Level 2 leather craftsperson standard, an industry-recognised qualification now used more widely across the sector.
Laira Pearson, assistant principal of apprenticeships at UCS College Group, said: "This partnership demonstrates the transformative power of apprenticeships.
"For 20 years, Mulberry and UCS College Group have worked together to develop talent, create opportunities, and preserve specialist skills that are an important part of Somerset's heritage and economy.
"We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, supporting more than 100 apprentices into rewarding careers, and we look forward to continuing to create opportunities for future generations."
Both organisations say they remain committed to investing in skills development, supporting career pathways, and preserving traditional craftsmanship while embracing innovation and new technologies to keep the sector thriving.
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