Apprenticeship journeys are a fun way to develop your skills, confidence, and career ambitions.
When Marie decided to start an apprenticeship, her goal was clear. She wanted to deepen her knowledge, strengthen her skills, and grow in her role. It’s a motivation shared by many of our colleagues who choose apprenticeships to invest in themselves and their futures.
As part of National Apprenticeship Week, Marie has shared her journey so far. Her story is an inspiring reminder of how valuable learning can be.
Getting started
Marie is currently completing the Recruiter Level 3 apprenticeship, a programme designed to build professional recruitment skills, confidence, and technical knowledge.
“I spoke with my manager about my interest in doing a course,” she explains. “And it was organised it for me.”
With the support of her team and manager, and a clear enthusiasm for personal development, Marie was quickly on her way.
Why an apprenticeship?
For Marie, the decision to begin an apprenticeship was driven by her desire to grow:
“I wanted to learn new skills and grow my skills and knowledge in the role I am in.”
She chose this programme because she recognised the impact it could have on her development—both personally and professionally.
Learning new skills
Since starting the apprenticeship, Marie has gained valuable insights into many aspects of recruitment:
- The different types of recruiters and pathways within the profession
- The legislation that underpins and shapes recruitment practice
- New approaches and methods that she can apply directly to her role
She says the learning has not only surprised her but also broadened her understanding of the industry in ways she didn’t expect.
Putting learning into practice
Perhaps the most rewarding part of Marie’s journey has been seeing her new skills translate into her day-to-day work:
“It has developed my skills which has helped me put them into practice in my role.”
Marie’s becoming more confident, more knowledgeable, and more equipped to excel, something that has also influenced her future goals.
An apprenticeship is a real job that enables individuals to earn while they learn, gaining valuable knowledge, skills and behaviours tailored to a specific job role.
As an employer, hiring an apprentice allows you to invest in the future by bringing in talent that fits your business needs. Apprentices, like any other employees, have a contract with you.
Key points
- Age: apprentices can start from age 16, usually with no upper age limit
- Wages: you must pay apprentices at least the National Minimum Wage. Learn more about pay and conditions for apprentices
- Existing employees: existing employees can also become apprentices to enhance their skills
- Training duration: an apprenticeship must include on-the-job and off-the-job training that lasts at least 8 months
- Time allocation: apprentices typically spend 80% of their time on the job, learning and gaining experience, and 20% off-the-job training, which may be at the workplace, a college, or with a training provider
“It has inspired me to work towards my goals of progressing in my current role.”
With each module and milestone, Marie is building a stronger foundation for where she wants to go next. Balancing study with work is always a challenge, but Marie’s approach keeps things manageable:
“I manage my diary by booking time out to complete work and to protect my time.”
This discipline helps her stay on track, maintain momentum, and get the most out of the experience.
Any advice?
“Just go for it! I have learnt so much in such a small space of time and that will continue to grow. It’s so worthwhile if you can commit the time to it.”
Marie’s apprenticeship story highlights the power of learning, the value of supportive managers, and the difference that investing in your own development can make.
We’re proud to celebrate her achievements—and the achievements of all our apprentices—this National Apprenticeship Week.
If you’ve been considering taking that first step yourself, Marie’s experience might be the encouragement you need.
