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February 9th, 2026 | 3 min

National Apprenticeship Week 2026

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Bowmer + Kirkland’s commitment to developing the next generation of construction leaders spans more than three decades, long before the introduction of the 2017 levy and the shift in terminology from trainee to apprentice came into effect.

As one of the UK’s leading construction and development groups the company has consistently demonstrated its commitment to investing in apprentices across disciplines including quantity surveying, construction management, engineering, design, planning and estimating, providing apprentices with invaluable hands-on experience whilst playing a vital role in delivering major projects across the UK.

When the Apprentice Levy was introduced in 2017, the B+K Group was celebrating its 10th year of running the Bowmer + Kirkland Academy Awards, an event designed to celebrate the achievements of staff that have graduated or completed their academic courses that year. The business currently has 223 apprentices working across various roles within the business.

Many of the business’ former trainees and apprentices have gone on to having lengthy careers and senior positions within the company, demonstrating the success of its approach to training and development. In fact, several original trainees are still with the business after 30 years.

B+K is a regular fixture at careers events throughout the country, engaging with students from early-years upwards to demonstrate the rewarding opportunities available within the construction industry. In 2025 launch events for the company’s 2026 Degree Apprenticeship intake took place in Derby and Bristol, attracting record numbers of students, resulting in record numbers of applications.

Apprentices at B+K receive personalised support and guidance through a dedicated mentor and bespoke training resources. The company’s Training Board, which includes senior staff from across the B+K Group, works closely with mentors and apprentices to provide support and access to the latest resources and insight helping to deliver the best learning experiences and outcomes.

Speaking during National Apprenticeship Week, Laura O’Sullivan, Group Head of HR at Bowmer + Kirkland said: “Apprenticeships are central to the future of our business and the wider construction industry. They allow us to nurture talent, pass on knowledge, and ensure we continue to deliver high-quality projects while supporting the next generation of construction professionals.”

“National Apprenticeship Week provides an opportunity to highlight the value of apprenticeships not only in building skills, but in creating long-term, rewarding careers.”

Applications for Bowmer + Kirkland's 2027 Degree Apprentice intake will begin in November 2026.

For more information on Apprenticeships at Bowmer + Kirkland click here.

Ends

Image: The Bowmer + Kirkland Academy Awards 2025 celebrate the academic achievements of students across the Group and is 18th year of the awards taking place.

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Email | comms@bandk.co.uk

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