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Apprenticeship insights

We pride ourselves on fostering talent through apprenticeships, helping individuals grow both personally and professionally. We spoke to two of our apprentices, Ollie and Mary, about their experiences and how their apprenticeships have shaped their careers so far.

Ollie's apprenticeship journey

What inspired you to join an apprenticeship pathway?

I thought an apprenticeship pathway perfectly matched my personality. I love staying active and engaging in work both physically and mentally. The balance between practical experience and structured learning was the perfect fit for me.

How has your apprenticeship helped you grow in your role so far?
I’ve developed many valuable skills, particularly in teamwork and communication. I’ve also gained more confidence in shaping my own career path, always seeking new learning opportunities that will help me progress.

What’s been the most rewarding part of your apprenticeship journey?
One of the highlights so far has been contributing to meaningful projects that align with the company’s goals. A great example is my involvement in achieving a ‘Green Kitchen Accreditation.’ Over a three-month period, I gathered data to showcase our sustainability initiatives on-site, making a tangible impact on our company’s environmental efforts.

How do you think this qualification will help your career in the long term?
This qualification will be instrumental in advancing my career. No matter which direction I take, the experience and skills I’ve gained will be incredibly valuable. The apprenticeship has provided a solid foundation for future growth and flexibility in my career choices.

What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship in our business?
I would strongly encourage anyone to consider an apprenticeship. The combination of online studies and practical experience has helped me grow into a managerial role within the business. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn, develop, and build a successful career.

Mary's apprenticeship journey

What inspired you to join an apprenticeship pathway?
I was unsure about my career direction due to my varied experience. I wanted to build my confidence in my professional skills while earning a salary and benefiting from the support of a company I knew and trusted. An apprenticeship provided a structured pathway to future planning without financial sacrifice, allowing me to explore different aspects of the business and feel like I was working toward a meaningful future.

How has your apprenticeship helped you grow in your role so far?
It has given me insight into the career I want to pursue. I’ve gained self-confidence, professional skills, and a clear understanding of my role’s expectations. It has helped me recognise how I can contribute to the business while identifying areas for personal growth and development.

What’s been the most rewarding part of your apprenticeship journey?
Personal growth has been the most rewarding aspect. The apprenticeship has provided clear goals and structured feedback, helping me transform challenges into opportunities. Instead of viewing obstacles as roadblocks, I now see pathways to success and feel equipped with the tools to navigate them effectively.

How do you think this qualification will help your career in the long term?
Before my apprenticeship, I felt stuck in a rigid career path. Now, I see endless opportunities to shape my future. I’ve developed a new perspective on business decisions, team engagement, and stakeholder relationships. This experience has not only boosted my confidence but also equipped me with the knowledge to pursue the career I truly want.

What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship in our business?
Whether you’re looking to build a strong foundation in your field or pivot your career, an apprenticeship can help you get there. It requires dedication and hard work, but BM provides the time, experience, and support needed to succeed. As someone who has already been to university, I found the workplace experience to be invaluable—accelerating my skill development and reshaping my career outlook.

Why choose an apprenticeship?

Ollie and Mary’s stories highlight the immense value of apprenticeships. They provide a unique blend of education and real-world experience, fostering both personal and professional growth. Whether you’re starting your career or looking for a fresh direction, an apprenticeship could be the perfect stepping stone to success.

This National Apprenticeship Week, we celebrate all our apprentices and the incredible contributions they make to our business. If you’re considering an apprenticeship, now is the perfect time to explore the possibilities and take the first step toward a rewarding career!