At Leicester College we don’t just encourage others to take on apprentices – we practise what we preach, as the benefits of employing apprentices are very real. We spoke with the marketing department’s marketing assistant apprentice to find out what it’s like to be an apprentice.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I’m Harriet and I am an apprentice with the Leicester College marketing team. I study a business administration level 2 programme alongside working in the office. My job is very mixed and a bit of everything which means I get to work with different people and experience most roles in the team.

What made you want to becomes an apprentice?

I’d done a BTEC extended diploma in photography and many of my friends were planning to go to university but I didn’t want to be in debt when I was older so learning while I get paid seemed a better option.

What’s the best thing about being an apprentice?

I think the best thing about being an apprentice is being able to learn and gain qualifications while you’re earning a bit of money at the same time. Also if you’re quite shy like me they help you to improve your confidence and communication skills in a workplace. Whereas gaining a qualification elsewhere (whether that’s university or distance learning) you may not gain these skills or work experience.

Is it what you expected?

It is what I expected, however I thought I would be out of my office having lessons a lot more than I have been. My trainer assessor does send me work over email though to be getting on with in my office so this does make up for it.

How do you think it will help your career in the future?

Having this apprenticeship has helped me to gain a lot of skills and made me realise where my strengths are. It has also gave me more of an idea of the route I want to take in the future.

What do you hope to do when your apprenticeship finishes?

I am hopefully staying at the College to progress on to a Level 3 apprenticeship. I’m not sure what I want to happen after that is finished but I’m sure I’ll have lots of options by then.

Have you got any words of advice for people thinking about applying for an apprenticeship?

I have already recommended apprenticeships to a lot of people as there are lots of options and paths you can go on during or after your apprenticeship. I personally think getting an apprenticeship is a great option: you’ll have no debt, great work experience, qualifications, and money!

If you’re interested in becoming an apprentice take a look at our current apprenticeship vacancies.