Before my apprenticeship I was attending sixth form at Queen Elizabeth in Darlington. I left after a year and completing my AS levels as I thought Sixth Form was just a repeat of school.

Why did you decide an apprenticeship was the right route for you?

I had started my A levels and completed my AS Levels. I thought that A levels weren’t what I wanted to do. I decided that I would rather earn my qualifications whilst making money and gaining experience. Also, I knew that starting an apprenticeship in a business would help me to get treat like an adult rather than a college student being treat like I was at school again!

What new skills do you feel you gained from undertaking your apprenticeship?

I feel like since starting my apprenticeship that I have gained better communication skills and matured more as a person. I think that I am more goal-orientated since starting and have gained more skills in time management.

How has your career progressed since achieving your apprenticeship?

Since my apprenticeship, I have moved through different roles and gained more responsibility within my roles. I am now a full time member of staff and I am trusted and left with tasks that the business needs completing. I have also gone through two pay rises since starting my apprenticeship.

Do you feel you apprenticeship assisted in you progressing your career?

I think that my apprenticeship has helped me with future career options – not only with qualifications, but with business experience. I have opened more doors for myself and hopefully gave myself an advantage over other possible candidate for jobs in the future. It has also gave me a better idea of what career I want to pursue.

Your words of advice – to other young people considering their options for the future... 

Get an apprenticeship! You can earn money whilst gaining qualifications and gain insight to what it is like in a work environment.