Apprenticeships at NHFM: building skills for the future

13th March 2025

At NHFM, we offer apprenticeships across a wide range of professions, including engineering, painting and decorating, and medical engineering. Additionally, our Manufacturing and Innovation Hub provides a unique apprenticeship in textile machinery, helping to develop skilled professionals in the textiles industry.

Apprenticeships play a crucial role in this sector, offering hands-on experience, developing in-demand skills, and addressing industry shortages. This not only boosts productivity but also helps build a skilled and diverse workforce.

Two of our recent apprentices, Neave Ankers and Gillian Lees, have successfully completed their sewing machinery apprenticeships at our Manufacturing and Innovation Hub and have now secured permanent roles.

Neave and Gillian share their experiences—why they chose an apprenticeship, the skills they’ve gained, and how their journey has led them to their current positions.

Congratulations, Neave and Gillian! Can you share what led you to your apprenticeship?

Neave: I studied art and design at college, which sparked my interest in textiles. Instead of going to university, I wanted to find an apprenticeship that would allow me to earn while I learn. When I saw this opportunity on the NHS job site, I applied immediately—it felt like the perfect way to develop my skills while contributing to the NHS.

Gillian: I studied textiles at university and later became a stay-at-home mum. When I decided to return to work, I knew I wanted to go back into textiles, as it’s my passion. Since I had been out of the industry for a while, I wanted a role where I could refresh and enhance my skills, and this apprenticeship was the perfect fit.

Why did you choose to do your apprenticeship within the NHS?

Neave: I was surprised to find a textile manufacturing apprenticeship in the NHS! Most people associate NHS apprenticeships with nursing or medicine, but there are so many career opportunities beyond healthcare. This apprenticeship was a unique route into garment manufacturing, which really interested me.

Gillian: The chance to give back to the NHS was a big factor for me. I also knew the Manufacturing and Innovation Hub had highly skilled machinists, and I saw this as an amazing opportunity to learn from experienced professionals while refining my own skills.

What exciting projects have you worked on during your apprenticeship?

Neave: I’ve been involved in producing surgical gowns and disposable scrubs, which has helped me master techniques like sewing straight seams and corners. I also had the chance to work with healthcare professionals, gathering their feedback on materials and garment fit to create designs that truly meet their needs.

Gillian: I’ve worked on garments for healthcare professionals, including nurses’ tunics and dresses. Like Neave, I’ve had the opportunity to interact directly with the people wearing our garments, ensuring the designs are comfortable, well-fitted, and suited to their needs.

What made you decide to apply for a full-time position after your apprenticeship?

Neave: The culture and people at the Manufacturing and Innovation Hub played a huge role in my decision. The team is incredibly supportive, and the strong development culture means there are plenty of opportunities to continue learning and progressing.

Gillian: This apprenticeship was a great way to build on my university knowledge, but I know there’s still so much more to learn. The experienced machinists here have incredible expertise, and I’m excited to continue developing my skills alongside them.

Finally, what advice would you give to someone considering an NHS apprenticeship?

Neave & Gillian: Go for it! Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to learn from experienced professionals while gaining hands-on experience. Plus, with the NHS, there are so many opportunities for career progression and skill development.