Apprentice profiles

Rebecca Shaw, 

Programming and machining advanced apprenticeship with Jaguar Land Rover.

Rebecca said: “I was a fairly average student at school but with my apprenticeship, I have found my passion and I work really hard at it. I surprised myself by doing well in the academic areas of the course – I gained nine straight distinctions in the first two years - as well as succeeding with my practical skills.

“I never saw myself as a university person. I still wanted to learn, but was keen to start earning as well, so the apprenticeship route was a good option for me.  I have never looked back.  I would definitely recommend apprenticeships to people who want to develop hands-on skills alongside qualifications – it is a good route into an enjoyable and fulfilling career.”

Shona Haswell

Logistics apprenticeship with Trelawny SPT.

Shona originally came to college on the ‘Level-Up’ programme, having not achieved the grades she needed at school. She spent just over six months at college, improving her English, maths and IT skills.  Following a successful work experience placement, she joined Trelawny as a logistics apprentice and hopes to eventually move into assembly or engineering.

Shona said: “I wanted to do a mechanics apprenticeship a few years ago but I didn’t get the grades I needed. At college, I found the tutors gave me lots of support and also treated me like an adult – I didn’t get moaned at all the time! The course was structured and very easy to follow as it adopted a step by step approach. Doing the course also gave me lots of confidence and, after my work experience, I got an apprenticeship.

“I would recommend college to others in my situation, especially if you used to get into trouble at school. College is a much easier place to get ahead.”

Harry - Tree Surgery

Apprentice tree surgeon.

Harry works four days each week for a tree surgeon and comes to college one day each week to learn the practical skills and theory he will need as a qualified tree surgeon.

Explaining how he came to the subject, he said: “I was made redundant from my last job and met a tree surgeon, who came to my house to take some big trees down. I asked him if he had any jobs going and he said yes, and I just really liked it from the start.”

Once he has qualified, he hopes to remain in his current job to gain experience, then move on to a large company, before eventually working for himself.

Emma - Business Administration

Business Administration apprenticeship with Warwickshire college.

 “I chose the apprenticeship route because I wanted to get some practical work experience, but also wanted to continue my studies. I enjoy learning and, with the apprenticeship, was able to put what I learned into practice straightaway. It was nice to be able to start earning too. Most of my friends went to university and are worried about being able to get a job when they leave, as well as being in quite a lot of debt. I don't have those concerns."

Graham and Sam - IT

Level 3 IT apprentice at North Leamington School.

Graham: “I did think about going to university but the idea of such a large amount of debt put me off. I attend college one day a week and work the other four days.  It’s a good balance – the things I need to do for college can be linked to projects at work and I can choose to study modules which will benefit me in my workplace.”

Sam: “I did the apprenticeship because I wanted to experience a different sort of learning, to be hands-on, not just sit in classes. I was keen to build experience because that is what counts in the job market. I have friends who have completed their degrees and aren’t as far along in their career as I am, so I certainly feel that the apprenticeship has set me up well for my future. I am hoping to continue studying and ultimately, obtain a degree.”

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