When we talk about apprenticeships, we often think of them as a way to ‘earn and learn’ but for many people, they offer so much more than that. One learner, Jake, currently completing a Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship with the MIS & Funding Team, has shared their experience and it paints a brilliant picture of how an apprenticeship can open new doors, unlock hidden skills, and provide a rewarding career path.
Starting the Journey
Before starting the apprenticeship, Jake had worked in retail and seasonal jobs – roles that, while valuable, lacked the stability and growth opportunities they were after. ‘I was looking for more stability and new skills’ Jake shared. ‘I often got bored in previous roles.’
The decision to take on an apprenticeship was a bold but smart move. Jake chose the Business Administration pathway because he already had some transferable skills and wanted to develop them into something solid, something that could contribute to a long-term career. ‘I found the advert interesting. It was about learning skills that could make me useful in a completely different sector’.
Day-to-day Responsibilities
Now part of the ACL MIS & Funding Team, Jake spends his days handling a wide variety of important tasks, from supporting learners with course information and equipment needs, to maintaining critical databases and spreadsheets. It’s varied, impactful work that builds practical, transferable skills every day.
‘I particularly like the hybrid working format’ Jake explained. ‘It makes it much easier for me to organise my tasks and priorities. Plus, when I’m working from home on spreadsheets, having background music on helps make it all feel easier.’
This blend of flexibility and responsibility has created a working environment where confidence grows, and where Jake has been able to take on new tasks, such as finance related work and data analysis.
Building a Career
For Jake, the apprenticeship isn’t just a stepping stone, it’s the foundation of a career. His goal is to keep growing with the team, continuing to develop his data and financial skills.
‘My apprenticeship has made me realise that I have several skills to help me achieve whatever goals I set for myself.’
Jake has completed a project he’s especially proud of, a custom Excel template that automates tasks, performs calculations, and adds colour coding to streamline data work, all built using a combination of what he learnt in his apprenticeship and new skills he went out of his way to discover.
The Apprenticeship Advantage
Would Jake recommend an apprenticeship to others? Absolutely.
‘It provides the information necessary to understand why certain tasks are required, and then gives you examples from your job role. You’ll always have the basic knowledge needed to contribute positively to any employer.’
They also noted how easy the sign-up process was: ‘Just like any other job. You get the documents, fill them in, send them back. They handle the rest.’
It’s a simple process that opens the door to a qualification, hands-on experience, and confidence.
More Than a Job
Outside of work, Jake is an avid reader with a love for fantasy and sci-fi. But even that has been influenced by their learning journey.
‘This apprenticeship has opened my mind to the sorts of questions needed to make fictional scenarios real. Like, building a spaceship would be expensive — but what about managing the materials, the equipment, even the personal items? There are always more skills to learn that can help with whatever your dreams are.’
Could an Apprenticeship Be Right for You?
If you’re looking for hands-on experience, real qualifications, and a workplace that supports your growth, an apprenticeship might just be the best decision you make. Whether you’re just starting out or changing direction, the structure and support of an apprenticeship can help you gain confidence, build your skills, and shape a future you’re excited about.
Ready to take the leap? Discover apprenticeship opportunities with ACL and take the first step towards a future that works for you.
