I’m 27 and have a degree – here’s why I’m becoming an apprentice
I’m 27 and have a degree – here’s why I’m becoming an apprentice
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I still remember the exact date I graduated from university: July 4th, 2019 – or, as it’s known in the States, ‘Independence Day’. And for me, that’s exactly what it was: the day I stepped out into the world of work and left formal education for good – or so I thought.
Yet here I am, more than five years later, finding myself writing about becoming an apprentice.
I’m very excited to be sharing the news that, thanks to Business in Wales’ Premium Partner ACT Training, I’ll be completing an ILM Level 3 Management Diploma.
I’ll be sharing my journey through this semi-regular column so you can keep up with my progress as I try to break down the stigma around becoming an apprentice and show the benefits of continuing your learning beyond school or university.
Please feel free to get in touch at media@businessin.wales if you have any advice or words of wisdom you’d like to share.
Luckily for me, I was part of an event hosted by ACT Training a couple of weeks ago and took the opportunity to catch up with Richard Spear, Managing Director of ACT Training and Chair of ALS Training.
He told me: “First of all, I’ve got to say congratulations – that’s a brilliant decision. This is a great opportunity, and there’s so much support available from your employer and from ACT. You’ll no doubt have a fantastic assessor who will be with you all the way.
“My advice is to be curious and not be afraid of making mistakes – that’s what learning is all about. Embrace the process and always keep an eye on where you’re heading. This isn’t just about gaining a qualification, it’s about your future and your progression.
“I’m sure you’ll enjoy it, so make the most of it.”
Before you start to panic (or rejoice), everything at Businessin Wales will remain as is – I’ll still be putting together your daily news briefings, hosting the podcast, and popping up at events.
In fact, that was a key selling point for me when agreeing to take up this opportunity. Finding out I would only need to commit around half a day per month in order to gain the qualification surprised me.
If workload is something holding you back from taking the leap into an apprenticeship, then I’d encourage you to reach out to ACT Training and have a conversation about what would be expected of you while undertaking the course – it may be less than you think!
In truth, I never thought this would be where my career would take me, but I’m also extremely grateful for the opportunities and possibilities ahead.
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