KW Bell Apprentices Share Insights As Part Of National Apprenticeship Week 2026

Family Business United (FBU) is marking National Apprenticeship Week 2026 (NAW2026) by celebrating the vital contribution apprentices make within family-owned businesses across the UK.

The campaign highlights the important role apprenticeships play in developing talent, building skills and supporting the long-term sustainability of family firms.

Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United, said the initiative reflects both the depth of talent across the sector and the long-term mindset that defines family businesses.

“Family businesses are the engine room of the UK economy,” he said.

“They take a long-term view, investing across their operations as they seek to build sustainable businesses for generations to come. Investing in apprentices is a key part of that commitment, and it is a pleasure to share the stories of apprentices working in family firms during National Apprenticeship Week.”

One of the family businesses featured in the campaign is KW Bell, where apprentices play an integral role across the organisation and represent the future of the business. KW Bell is a prominent third-generation family-owned construction and property development business based in Cinderford, Gloucestershire. Founded in 1968 by Keith Bell, it has grown from a local bricklaying outfit into a diversified group of businesses employing investing in and developing apprentices throughout the business.

There are a number of apprentices currently developing their careers at KW Bell, including Quentin Gardner, a Trainee Quantity Surveyor undertaking a Level 4 Quantity Surveying HNC apprenticeship. Reflecting on his experience, Quentin said: “Working as an apprentice at a family business has allowed me the opportunity to learn valuable skills from my more experienced mentors, whilst remaining in my local area."

"Working in a close-knit team has helped enhance my personal and professional growth, as we constantly work together to achieve targets.”

Ollie Mason, who is undertaking the same apprenticeship, added: “Being an apprentice in a family-run business has helped me gain experience first-hand, learn from my mentors and build my pathway into a skilled role within the business.”

Another Trainee Quantity Surveyor, Leisha Williams, values the balance apprenticeships offer between learning and earning. “My apprenticeship is a combination of lots of learning while earning at the same time,” she explained. “My responsibilities include measuring works, preparing valuations and pricing variations. I currently study at college one day a week for my Level 3 qualification and hope to progress to Level 4 and beyond.”

“Being a Trainee Quantity Surveyor in a family-run business gives me the opportunity to gain real experience and contribute to future projects. My skills are improving, I’m paid while learning, and since working at Bells my confidence has grown significantly.”

Joshua Tippins, an Apprentice Buyer and Quantity Surveyor, highlighted the long-term development opportunities available: “The apprenticeship with Bell Homes has provided many opportunities to improve my skills and knowledge over the last four years. Through workplace training and academic learning with AccXel, I’ve taken on increased responsibility.”

He added: “I’ve been with Bells for six years now. It’s a brilliant business to work for, offering a wide range of pathways and opportunities within the construction industry in the Forest of Dean."

"The company has decades of experience which I’ve benefited from greatly—it’s a privilege to work here.”

For Lewis Hall, who is completing a BSc Quantity Surveying Degree Apprenticeship, the family business environment has been central to his development.

“Working as an apprentice in a family business has allowed me to be mentored by those who excel in their profession, helping me gain valuable skills beyond the classroom,” he said.

“The continued investment in my development demonstrates trust and motivates me to align with the core values of the business, contribute meaningfully and help build on the legacy already created.”

Libby Brooks, a Buyer at KW Bell, described the breadth of her role: “My role requires me to procure materials ranging from brickwork to kitchens and internal finishes. This involves working closely with building merchants and subcontractors to negotiate pricing and control costs, while collaborating with sales teams to help bring customers’ visions to life.”

“Working in a family business as a construction apprentice allows me to learn from people who genuinely want to teach the next generation the values and skills needed to do things the right way.”

Apprenticeships also offer opportunities for the next generation of the family, including Amelia Bird, daughter of KW Bell Chief Operating Officer Nicola Bird. Amelia is a Trainee Buyer working towards a procurement qualification.

“Gaining hands-on experience in buying, supplier management and cost control while studying is a fantastic way to develop a deeper understanding of the family firm,” she said.

“Being an apprentice and a fourth-generation member of the family business means I’m learning my trade while helping to continue our family’s legacy."

"I’m developing real skills, taking on responsibility early and seeing first-hand how our decisions impact the business and the people we work with.”

As National Apprenticeship Week 2026 continues, stories like these reinforce the message at the heart of Family Business United’s campaign: apprenticeships not only help individuals build successful careers, but also play a vital role in securing the future and legacy of the UK’s family businesses for generations to come.