Nestled on a small island on the River Test in Hampshire stands Whitchurch Silk Mill – a living, working testament to Britain’s industrial textile heritage. Built in 1815 and powered by water for much of its life, this Georgian mill is the only one in the country still operating with its original Victorian machinery inside its original building.
But the beating heart of the Mill today isn’t just its looms – it’s the people keeping them running. Among them is Shannon Bye, Heritage Weaving Manager and a shining example of how modern apprenticeships are equipping a new generation with the skills to sustain traditional crafts.
After two years at the mill, Shannon and Mill Director, Sue Tapliss recognised a pressing challenge: a growing skills gap in the production area. With an ageing workforce and critical expertise at risk of being lost, Shannon decided to take action – by enrolling in a Level 4 Textiles Technical Specialist Apprenticeship through the Textile Centre of Excellence, following the weaving pathway.
“There was a real skills gap in the production area,” Shannon explained. “With an ageing workforce, it became clear that someone needed to step up and carry this knowledge forward.”
Despite the additional challenge of being dyslexic, Shannon found the apprenticeship structure deeply supportive. The coursework-based approach and tailored 1-2-1 mentoring enabled her to thrive, playing to her strengths and helping her build a comprehensive, practical portfolio.
“It suited my learning style perfectly,” she says. “I could ask questions, take my time, and build a portfolio that I still refer back to today.”
Her dedication has paid off. Richard Woodhead, Development coach at the Textile Centre of Excellence, has praised her efforts:
“Throughout the duration of the course Shannon demonstrated an outstanding attitude to learning and this was reflected in the quality of work undertaken as part of her training. This ultimately resulted in a full distinction qualification. Shannon is a great asset to Whitchurch Silk Mill and will no doubt continue to be into the future.”
Beyond the classroom, the apprenticeship opened doors to industry insight – from heritage craftsmanship to modern manufacturing. Visits to textile leaders like AW Hainsworth and Gainsborough Silk Weaving broadened her understanding of the sector and deepened her appreciation of the Mill’s unique position within it.
Now managing the Mill’s silk production for both external clients and its own shop, Shannon also helps maintain the 19th-century machinery – a role that blends historical preservation with the practical demands of contemporary production.
Her impact has been recognised nationally. Shannon has been named Fashion & Textile Maker of the Year and listed in Drapers’ 30 Under 30, testament to her influence and promise within the UK textile industry.
Shannon’s story is a compelling example of how apprenticeships don’t just offer an entry point into traditional industries — they ensure those industries have a future. With skilled, passionate individuals like her leading the way, Britain’s textile heritage is in capable hands.
