Apprentice spotlights

We’re proud to highlight apprentices from across our trust who are developing new skills, growing in confidence and making a real impact in their roles. These spotlights share the experiences of colleagues working in a range of teams and schools, celebrating their achievements and the value apprenticeships bring to our organisation.

Jodie Turner - Mental Health and Wellbeing Lead

What is your job role?

Mental Health and Wellbeing Lead

Apprenticeship (title and level):

Thrive Wellbeing Leadership Apprenticeship Level 5

What was your route into apprenticeship?

I chose to complete an apprenticeship as part of my professional development

How has this apprenticeship helped you to grow professionally?

It has helped me to understand my role and give me confidence in my leadership position and think more strategically within meetings and projects and give me the ownership to execute ideas.

How do you think this apprenticeship will help you to prepare for the next steps in your career?

It will ensure I have a solid understanding of leadership, give me confidence and evidence base to execute leading a team, leading on initiatives and give me opportunities to step into other leadership roles in the future.

How has your mentor supported you in your growth?

My mentor has been extremely supportive, seeking this apprenticeship for myself and my colleague within my team and support me with all I need. She continuously provides opportunities and has supported me through my professional development developing from a TA to a middle leader position.

Why would you recommend an apprenticeship to others?

It enables you to achieve qualifications to support continuous learning and career progression. It enables you to continue to work whilst learning and earning qualifications.

In one sentence, how would you describe your experience on the apprenticeship programme?

It has so far been exciting and opportunistic.

Patrick Boreham - Finance Officer

What is your job role?

Finance Officer.

Apprenticeship (title and level):

CIMA & Level 7.

What was your route into apprenticeship?

I was recruited as an apprentice .

How has this apprenticeship helped you to grow professionally?

This has helped me grow professionally by helping my understanding of professional behaviour such as being able to help my communication to internal and external people and how i present myself as a person. It's also helped me grow my confidence being able to own a meeting I set up by being able to voice my opinions.

How has your confidence or skillset improved since starting (or completing the apprenticeship?

My confidence has significantly improved since the start of my apprenticeship, I'm now able to actively be involved in budget meetings taking control off these and offering my opinions to the schools. My skills have significantly improved since starting with not just the information I was learning on my course but also the valuable information, I have been able to acquire on the job with all the different people I work with.

How do you think this apprenticeship will help you to prepare for the next steps in your career?

This apprenticeship has helped me prepare for my future by shaping my progression in this role and the future of where I'm able to move forward. The qualification I am aiming to achieve will unlock a lot of potential for me within the trust and outside the trust.

How has your mentor supported you in your growth?

My mentor has supported me constantly in my growth offering to put me on additional internal courses for my own personal gain and to help boost my confidence.

Why would you recommend an apprenticeship to others?

I would recommend an apprenticeship as your able to earn a wage whilst also being able to work getting firsthand experience as well instead of just studying and not getting any actual experience in the industry that can be linked back to what I learn.

In one sentence, how would you describe your experience on the apprenticeship programme?

It's been a real joy to be able to learn whilst studying.

Lauren Sheridan - Business Operations Manager

What is your current job role?

Business Operations Manager.

Has your role changed since completing the apprenticeship?

Yes.

Apprenticeship (title and level):

Business Administrator Level 3.

What was your route into apprenticeship?

I chose to complete an apprenticeship as part of my professional development .

How did this apprenticeship help you to grow professionally?

I was an Office manager whilst completing my apprenticeship. Since completing the apprenticeship, I have progressed into the role of Business Operations Manager. The knowledge and confidence I gained through the programme helped me take on greater responsibility, lead with more assurance, and contribute to organisational improvements on a broader scale. It has been a key foundation in my career progression, and I’m proud to be an example of how apprenticeships can support genuine development and advancement.

How did your confidence or skillset improve as a result of your apprenticeship?

My apprenticeship significantly improved both my confidence and skillset. It strengthened my core administrative and organisational abilities and helped me approach tasks more strategically. I became more assured in decision‑making, communicating with colleagues, and managing wider responsibilities. This boost in confidence directly supported my progression from Office Manager to Business Operations Manager.

How did this apprenticeship impact your career?

The apprenticeship had a direct and positive impact on my career. It strengthened my skills, increased my confidence, and helped me develop a more strategic approach to my work. As a result, I was able to take on greater responsibility and progress from Office Manager to Business Operations Manager.

How did your mentor support you during the apprenticeship?

My mentor provided invaluable support throughout my apprenticeship. They offered clear guidance, regular check‑ins, and constructive feedback that helped me stay focused and build confidence. They were always available to answer questions, talk through challenges, and help me apply what I was learning to real situations in my role. Their encouragement and practical advice played a key part in my successful completion of the apprenticeship.

Why would you recommend an apprenticeship to others?

I would recommend an apprenticeship to others because it gives you the chance to apply what you learn directly to your role, which makes the training far more meaningful and effective. Apprenticeships also build confidence, open up career progression opportunities, and provide support from mentors who genuinely want to help you succeed. It’s a great way to grow professionally while still contributing to your workplace.

In one sentence, how would you describe your experience on the apprenticeship programme?

My experience on the apprenticeship programme was empowering and instrumental in helping me grow both professionally and personally.

Joe Green - Trust Electrician

Trust Electrician.

Has your role changed since completing the apprenticeship?

Yes.

Apprenticeship (title and level):

Installation Electrician and Maintenance Electrician Level 3.

What was your route into apprenticeship?

I was recruited as an apprentice .

How did this apprenticeship help you to grow professionally?

The apprenticeship helped me grow by increasing my confidence to do my job and gave me people/communication skills that will last me throughout my career.

How did your confidence or skillset improve as a result of your apprenticeship?

My skillset improved massively as I had 4 years of learning the fundamentals of electricity and putting them into practice.

How did this apprenticeship impact your career?

My apprenticeship showed me what working life was like after transitioning from college giving me the assistance to grow.

How did your mentor support you during the apprenticeship?

My mentor Colin was brilliant throughout my apprenticeship teaching me everything I needed to know about the electrical industry , doing so in an easy to learn manor with lots of patience.

Why would you recommend an apprenticeship to others?

I would highly recommend an apprenticeship because it gives you a chance to earn while you learn and in my opinion there is no better way to learn than doing the real thing.

In one sentence, how would you describe your experience on the apprenticeship programme?

The experience you earn is priceless and will stick with you throughout the rest of your career.

Rebecca Johnson - IT Technician

What is your current job role?

Level 1 IT Technician.

Has your role changed since completing the apprenticeship?

Yes.

Apprenticeship (title and level):

Level 3 - Information Communications Technician (Cloud Network Specialist).

What was your route into apprenticeship?

I was recruited as an apprentice .

How did this apprenticeship help you to grow professionally?

My apprenticeship helped me to kickstart my career in IT and give me a permanent role in the IT Services team. I also gained a lot of knowledge that doesn't come up in day-to-day work, which I've used to support me in my work and can aid me in future roles.

How did your confidence or skillset improve as a result of your apprenticeship?

Gaining confidence in customer service was a part of my apprenticeship that gave me the framework to respond to end users in a professional manner. I have since managed to build on this and develop friendly, long-lasting work relationships with many customers and external suppliers.

How did your mentor support you during the apprenticeship?

I didn't receive a lot of support from my first mentor, although I was given some breaks in learning to deal with personal matters. After switching to a new mentor, I managed to finish my apprenticeship promptly and with good results. However, I am aware that we no longer use the company I did my apprenticeship under due to multiple apprentices having issues with mentors.

Why would you recommend an apprenticeship to others?

I learn best when working hands-on with the theory I'm being taught, and an apprenticeship gives you the opportunity to do just that. You can put your knowledge into practise immediately and give it context to further improve what you know. An apprenticeship has allowed me to earn money whilst learning and step onto the professional ladder when other options, like university, weren't best for me.

In one sentence, how would you describe your experience on the apprenticeship programme?

Challenging but worth the outcome.

Leanne Birkett - Catering Manager

What is your current job role?

Catering manager.

Has your role changed since completing the apprenticeship?

Yes.

Apprenticeship (title and level):

Craft baker level 2.

What was your route into apprenticeship?

I chose to complete an apprenticeship as part of my professional development .

How did this apprenticeship help you to grow professionally?

I became more confident in my baking and helping me provide delicious and compliant desserts for the school.

How did your confidence or skillset improve as a result of your apprenticeship?

I learn the importance of balanced desserts and how they can effect our students learning.

How did this apprenticeship impact your career?

It’s gave me the confidence to become catering manager in an all through school.

How did your mentor support you during the apprenticeship?

My mentor did an amazing job working with with and my trainers.

Why would you recommend an apprenticeship to others?

Yes 100%.

In one sentence, how would you describe your experience on the apprenticeship programme?

Exciting process.

Corinne Bascombe - Teaching Assistant (Secondary)

What is your job role?

Teaching Assistant.

Apprenticeship (title and level):

Well-being Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship Level 5.

What was your route into apprenticeship?

I chose to complete an apprenticeship as part of my professional development.

How has this apprenticeship helped you to grow professionally?

To provide more insight into the inner workings of behaviour in students with neurodiversity.

How have your confidence or skillset improved since starting (or completing the apprenticeship?

Yes.

How do you think this apprenticeship will help you to prepare for the next steps in your career?

It will help me to advance my career, take on more responsibility, and build expertise in social and emotional support for children and young people.

How has your mentor supported you in your growth?

Anne Marie has set regular check ins and reviews to ensure that I understand how to navigate the learning platforms and sites, that I am on target with modules and other tasks.

Why would you recommend an apprenticeship to others?

I would recommend an apprenticeship if it helps with career advancement and increases to salary.

In one sentence, how would you describe your experience on the apprenticeship programme?

It has been very informative and insightful.

Katie Arthur - Teaching School Hub Coordinator - ECTE Lead

What is your job role?

Teaching School Hub Coordinator - ECTE Lead.

Apprenticeship (title and level):

Level 6 BSc (Hons) Project Management (DA).

What was your route into apprenticeship?

I was recruited as an apprentice.

How has this apprenticeship helped you to grow professionally?

Through this apprenticeship, I’ve grown professionally by strengthening my knowledge and skills and building confidence in my abilities. I use these to implement improvements and lead projects that benefit both my team and the wider organisation.

How have your confidence or skillset improved since starting (or completing the apprenticeship?

Both my confidence and skillset have grown significantly, supported by the new knowledge I’ve gained throughout the apprenticeship.

How do you think this apprenticeship will help you to prepare for the next steps in your career?

I now hold a globally recognised Project Management Professional Qualification gained through my apprenticeship, which has strengthened my technical knowledge and practical experience. Completing the degree will provide an additional academic qualification, giving me the flexibility and credibility to pursue a Project Manager role or other senior positions in the future.

How has your mentor supported you in your growth?

My mentor has supported me with my working pattern and study days.

Why would you recommend an apprenticeship to others?

Yes I would. I believe that CPD is important for all staff.

In one sentence, how would you describe your experience on the apprenticeship programme?

My apprenticeship has given me the confidence to believe in myself and enjoy learning, knowing that I can achieve my goals.

Ria Tomlinson - HR Director

What is your job role?

HR Director.

Apprenticeship (title and level):

L7 Strategic People Management.

What was your route into apprenticeship?

I chose to complete an apprenticeship as part of my professional development.

How has this apprenticeship helped you to grow professionally?

Completing my apprenticeship alongside my role has strengthened my practice, enhanced my knowledge and grown my confidence.

How have your confidence or skillset improved since starting (or completing the apprenticeship?

Completing my L7 has given me opportunities to improve my skills and cement my knowledge at a strategic level as a people professional.

How do you think this apprenticeship will help you to prepare for the next steps in your career?

A huge amount! Being L7 qualified supports me in becoming established in my role and providing an expert service to our Trust.

How has your mentor supported you in your growth?

I couldn't of done it without them - support with my learning, wellbeing and confidence!

Why would you recommend an apprenticeship to others?

It's flexible, provides learning on the job and the duration is spread out so it doesn't feel as intense as a completing my qualification privately. I am supported by RKLT through mentoring and with protected time, because investing in my learning not only benefits my development but it benefits our Trust too! Completing my qualification alongside my day job allows practical and supportive learning with opportunities to apply my learning.

Molly Plows - Learning Assistant (Primary)

What is your job role?

Apprentice learning assistant

Apprenticeship (title and level):

Apprentice learning assistant level 3

What was your route into apprenticeship?

I was recruited as an apprentice

How has this apprenticeship helped you to grow professionally?

It has taught me how to work with all different types of children and I have learnt new strategies and techniques that help me on a day to day basis when working with children.

How have your confidence or skillset improved since starting (or completing the apprenticeship?

I would say from starting this course it has given me confidence in myself and taught me how to deal with heavy situations and solutions, it has given me the confidence to try all aspects of my job since I have the support around me in case I need help.

How do you think this apprenticeship will help you to prepare for the next steps in your career?

I would say that this apprenticeship will help me with my career since it has given me the opportunity to learn as I work and has taught me valuable skills that I can take with me.

How has your mentor supported you in your growth?

Whenever I have been struggling with my work my mentor has always been there to support me in any way she can, she has made sure that I don’t feel alone or isolated and given me the support I needed.

Why would you recommend an apprenticeship to others?

I would recommend an apprenticeship to others since it has taught me so much about working in a school and has taught me how to work with all types of children and problems.

In one sentence, how would you describe your experience on the apprenticeship programme?

I am grateful to be in a position where I am surrounded by people who are willing to help me and I would say it has made my experience working in a school so much better by giving me all of the information I need.

Gemma Wilson - Recruitment Administrator

What is your job role?

Recruitment Administrator

Apprenticeship (title and level):

CIPD Level 5

Where are you based?

RKLT Central Office

What was your route into apprenticeship?

I chose to complete an apprenticeship as part of my professional development.

How has this apprenticeship helped you to grow professionally?

An apprenticeship has helped me grow professionally by pushing me to try new things, approach tasks in new ways, and enhance my knowledge. Being part of a supportive team has improved how I communicate my ideas and given me the confidence to question processes and suggest new ways of working. Regular support and feedback have allowed me to continuously grow and improve.

How has your confidence or skillset improved since starting (or completing the apprenticeship?

My apprenticeship has helped me build knowledge, confidence, and skills that support me in my role now and prepare me for future opportunities. Knowing that my team supports me and encourages my development makes the hard work worthwhile and gives me confidence in the work I deliver.

How do you think this apprenticeship will help you to prepare for the next steps in your career?

I chose to complete a Level 5 apprenticeship to prepare myself for future progression. It allows me to add greater value to my team while continuing to build my knowledge and confidence, pushing me to stretch myself and grow professionally.

How has your mentor supported you in your growth?

My mentor has always taken the time to listen to my ideas and offer thoughtful, constructive feedback, which has helped us shape new processes and continually grow and improve. This support has really built my confidence and self-belief and made me feel genuinely valued as a member of the team. I feel supported and respected, and the shared knowledge across different areas helps me bring theory to life through practical, real-world examples.

Why would you recommend an apprenticeship to others?

Apprenticeships offer a valuable opportunity to learn and grow, with something to suit everyone. They are challenging but rewarding, requiring hard work and commitment, and a critical part of success is time management. Apprenticeships allow you to gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge and are especially beneficial for changing career direction or building on existing knowledge in preparation for future growth and progression.

In one sentence, how would you describe your experience on the apprenticeship programme?

An apprenticeship is a challenging and rewarding journey that stretches you, builds self-belief, and brings the excitement of learning and growing in a real-world environment.