Apprenticeship Week: Monday 9th February – Sunday 15th February 2026
As part of National Apprenticeship Week, we celebrate the growth and continued development of apprenticeships, particularly the Level Three Technical Apprenticeship in Sign Making, which has become a cornerstone qualification for individuals entering the signage industry within the United Kingdom (UK).
The British Sign & Graphics Association (BSGA) plays a leading role in supporting this essential qualification, providing apprentices with the skills, knowledge, and occupational competencies required to succeed in our highly creative and technical sector.
The Trailblazer Group for the Level Three Technical Apprenticeship in Sign Making shapes, develops, and reviews the standard. Jeff Bufton, Education and Training Committee Chair, leads the group with support from Linda Edwards (BSGA Managing Director), Craig Brown (BSGA Chairman), David Derbyshire (BSGA Technical Committee Chair), David Allen (BSGA President), and many other dedicated industry experts. Through their collective expertise, the group ensures the standard reflects modern industry needs, defines technical skills, behaviours, safety knowledge, and professional competencies, and safeguards the integrity of the occupation.
Linda Edwards and David Derbyshire also serve as Independent End Point Assessors for this certification, ensuring apprentices meet the industry’s exacting standards under SIAS guidelines. This independent assessment process provides robust quality assurance and maintains the high benchmark expected in sign making.
National Apprenticeship Week also highlights wider national reforms shaping the future of skills development. The Government has reaffirmed its commitment with £725 million of additional investment through the Growth and Skills Levy, including full funding for SMEs recruiting 16 – 24 year olds and targeted measures to reverse the decline in youth apprenticeship starts. Reforms are being introduced to streamline apprenticeship standards, simplify levy arrangements, and implement more flexible assessment models – all whilst maintaining rigorous occupational competence. Skills England is now progressing the next phase of reform in closer partnership with employers.
The BSGA remains actively engaged in this evolving landscape. We are not only protecting and strengthening the Level Three standard but also expanding the apprenticeship pathway for the UK signage industry, including – but not limited to, the potential development of a Level Two entry route. This will create a more accessible starting point, broaden participation, and establish a structured progression framework that supports long-term career development.
Through the involvement of key industry experts, the BSGA provides apprentices access to a strong professional network, mentorship, and a clear pathway to achievement. By shaping competency based standards and contributing to national reform, we ensure both apprentices and employers are equipped with the tools and support needed to thrive.
If you are an aspiring sign maker or an employer looking to develop your team, now is the ideal time to get involved.
Contact the BSGA today to learn more about the apprenticeship programme and how it can benefit you or your organisation.
Together, we can reinforce professional standards, strengthen our skills pipeline, and secure the future of the UK signage industry.