Every year, we meet young people whose determination quietly reshapes their future. This year, that person is Grace, the newest apprentice supported through our ongoing partnership with Plumpton College. Her journey as a Level 3 Lead Baker Apprentice has just begun, marking an exciting new chapter for both Grace and the Foundation.

A Partnership Evolving With Purpose

The Jim Jackson Foundation has proudly partnered with Plumpton College for several years, supporting disadvantaged students across a range of courses. This year, that partnership has evolved in a meaningful new way: for the first time, the Foundation is co-funding a Level 3 Lead Baker apprenticeship.

It’s a natural step for us. Baking played an important role in the early working life of our founder, Jim Jackson, during his time at a Unilever bakery. He understood what it meant to learn a craft hands-on, how it builds confidence, independence, and a sense of direction. Supporting a young baker through this apprenticeship is a fitting continuation of that legacy.

Meeting Grace

When we met Grace, her enthusiasm for baking was immediately clear. But even more striking was her resilience - the kind we often see in young people who have had to overcome significant challenges just to pursue their ambitions.

Thanks to the support of Plumpton College and the Foundation’s new apprenticeship funding, Grace now has access to the training, mentoring and real-world experience she needs to build the career she dreams of.

Over the next two years, she will train in Plumpton’s new AgriFood Centre while working in the commercial bakery at One Garden Brighton. Under the guidance of Sophie, a former apprentice herself and now Head Baker, Grace will learn everything from artisan sourdough to running a full bakery operation.

“I’m feeling very grateful,” Grace told us on her first day. “This is a life-changing opportunity for me. It’s my dream job, and the chance to learn as much as I can so that one day I can have my own business.”

Her passion is evident, and her determination, inspiring.

Learning From Someone Who’s Walked the Path

One of the most meaningful aspects of this apprenticeship is Grace’s mentor, Sophie. Once a Plumpton apprentice, Sophie now leads the One Garden Brighton bakery and understands the journey Grace is starting better than anyone.

“This two-year apprenticeship gives you the knowledge, confidence and structure you need to thrive,” Sophie says. “It prepared me for the career I have today, and I know it will do the same for Grace.”

Seeing one apprentice guide another captures what this partnership is all about: creating opportunities that grow into more opportunities.

Why We Support Grace And Others Like Her

Every young person has potential. What many lack is access to training, to mentoring, to financial support, or simply to someone who believes in them.

The Jim Jackson Foundation exists to bridge that gap. Through tailored funding and support, we help young people who have faced disadvantages take meaningful steps toward careers they care about.

Grace is now part of that story and we’re proud to stand beside her as she learns, grows, and builds the future she envisions.

We look forward to sharing her progress as this new chapter unfolds.