National Apprenticeship Week: BAJ Apprentices Gain Real-World Jewellery Skills

10 Feb 2026

During National Apprenticeship Week (9–15 February), the British Academy of Jewellery (BAJ) is spotlighting how its Level 3 Apprenticeship in Jewellery turns curiosity into craft. Apprentices earn while they learn, working alongside experienced jewellers to develop the confidence and craftsmanship needed for long-term careers in the jewellery trade.

Apprentice Journeys

Mia Grigg entered the jewellery industry with no formal experience. During the 2020 lockdown, she began wire-wrapping and designing small pieces of jewellery for family and friends, which gradually grew into a passion for the craft. She discovered BAJ and began her apprenticeship with Hockley Mint Ltd.

Mia Grigg, Level 3 Jewellery Apprentice says,

“Starting in a professional workshop environment was challenging at first, but the experience quickly became transformative. Walking into a large workshop with so many experienced jewellers was overwhelming. An apprenticeship felt more suited to me because I could build my skill level while working and learning at the same time.

I was only 18 and had no experience in the trade. Learning on the job was difficult, but also incredibly rewarding. That’s down to the support from both my tutors and my employer.”

Seb Buckley, a second-year apprentice, highlights the value of learning directly from tutors with industry experience and the impact this has had on his career planning and progression.

Seb Buckley, Level 3 Jewellery Apprentice says,

“One of the benefits of this course has been gaining valuable knowledge from teachers who have experience in the trade. Being able to talk through projects and next steps has helped me plan how to continue building my jewellery career.”  

Evie Ward, 21, left her role as a head barista to pursue a goldsmith apprenticeship with Lawsons Goldsmiths training through BAJ. She studies in London part-time while working with her employer, embracing the challenge of returning to education.

Evie Ward, Level 3 Jewellery Apprentice

“It has been a big step going back into education after three years, but I’ve found it easier because I’m doing something I’m passionate about. I’m nervous about the final assessment, but because I’m immersed in it every day, I know I’ll be confident by the end.”

Benefits for individuals and jewellery businesses

Miranda Sharpe, BAJ Apprenticeship Coordinator says,

“Apprenticeships don’t just develop individuals, they help jewellery businesses too. By training apprentices in their own workshops, employers can nurture skilled jewellers who understand their standards and values. Apprentices bring fresh ideas, energy, and enthusiasm, helping teams thrive. Combining structured training with hands-on experience also supports businesses in closing skills gaps and sustaining the future of British jewellery.”

BAJ proudly supports the next generation of jewellers, helping them develop the skills, confidence, and creativity needed to shape the UK jewellery industry.

View BAJ’s Level 3 Jewellery Apprenticeship

Source: BAJ