Building Futures Through Craft: Our Visit to Johnstons of Elgin

Hey its Hannah! Recently, Lauren and I had the opportunity to visit Johnstons of Elgin to explore how apprenticeships shape the future of one of Scotland’s most historic textile manufacturers. During our visit, we interviewed three people who have each experienced the apprenticeship journey from different angles: Michelle Crawford, from the Learning and Development team; Jake Browning, who has completed his Modern Apprenticeship and is now a Wet Finishing Operative; and Leona Smart, a former apprentice who is now a Team Lead.

How Apprentices Contribute to the Wider Team

What we discovered was a business rooted in learning, opportunity, and long-term development.

When I spoke to Michelle, her passion for developing people’s skill set was clear. She explained that apprentices play an essential role across the organisation:

“Learning is the beginning in the journey, there is one thing in life that is constant and that is change, and through learning you can get over the change, learning should definitely be a part of your life.”

Johnstons of Elgin offer a wide range of apprenticeships including:

Sewn products/textiles - level 5.

Dyehouse apprentice.

Jake’s Journey: From Apprentice to Wet Finishing Operative

Speaking to Jake Browning was a highlight of our visit. Jake originally planned to go to university to study International Tourism Management, but after receiving support from DYW Moray, he discovered apprenticeships, something he did not know much about at the time.

Jake completed his Modern Apprenticeship in Textiles and is now a Wet Finishing Operative.

What he wishes he had known before starting:

Jake told us he did not realise how significant health and safety would be day to day, but it quickly became one of the areas he enjoyed most.

How his apprenticeship shaped him:

“I’ve developed communication, teamwork, adaptiveness and problem-solving skills.”

It was clear from our conversation just how much he has grown personally and professionally.

What makes someone successful:

Jake believes a good eye for detail and strong communication are essential for his role, especially when identifying errors early.

Why he chose an apprenticeship:

He wanted to understand what really happens behind the scenes and learn practical skills directly in the workplace.

Looking ahead:

Jake told us that in the next few years, he hopes to stay with Johnstons of Elgin and possibly explore other departments.

His advice to others was simple and sincere:

“Definitely go for it. It will help you gain a lot more understanding and knowledge of whatever sector you wish to go into.”

Leona’s Story: From Apprentice to Team Lead

We also spoke to Leona Smart, who completed a Textiles Manufacturing SVQ Level 2 Modern Apprenticeship. Today, she is a Team Lead, and a brilliant example of just how far an apprenticeship can take you.

What she wishes she had known:

Leona said she was surprised by the amount of written work and health and safety content involved. However, both helped her gain a deeper understanding of the manufacturing process.

How her apprenticeship shaped her career:

“It opened up my knowledge on my position, health and safety, manufacturing, and different departments.”

Her role now benefits greatly from this knowledge.

Qualities needed:

Leona highlighted the importance of being a good team player, communicating well, managing stress, staying organised, and keeping good time.

What she enjoyed most:

She loved learning how different departments connect and how processes influence one another.

Her future ambitions:

Over the next few years, Leona hopes to expand her knowledge of machinery and take on more maintenance responsibilities.

She told us:

“I found the apprenticeship very knowledgeable and exciting to complete.”

Overall, we had a really insightful visit and have learnt lots of new information regarding Johnstons of Elgin and their Apprenticeships.