Bethan Woolmer - Apprentice Ambassador

Name: Bethan Woolmer

Age: 18

What apprenticeship are you studying? 
Digital Marketing Level 3 at West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service

Why did you choose the Apprenticeship route? 

It was coming to the end of Year 13 at sixth form and I knew that university wasn’t for me, as I don’t really know what I want to do with my life! So I liked the idea of working and learning at the same time, which is why I decided to look for apprenticeships, specialising in media or digital marketing. My career’s advisor said that I should look for apprenticeships, which I began to do so before my final exams ended. I believe that gaining experience in the work place is very important as well as being able to learn at the same time, which is why I wanted to become an apprentice. I also wanted to do something different, instead of just going to university like everybody else and I have always preferred being in a work place. 

How has your experience been as an apprentice? 

My experience as an apprentice has been amazing so far, the opportunities and experience I’ve had, I would have never of dreamed of getting! (I only started my apprenticeship in November) I am also enjoying going to college and learning things that I can bring to my workplace. Some tasks are difficult compared to others, but I am always up for a challenge. I am very grateful for the position I am in and what my job role consists of. I am very glad I have made this decision. 

What are the key things you have learnt throughout your apprenticeship? 

I have learnt a lot of things that I didn’t know about marketing from my level 3 course, which has really helped within my workplace. As for work, I am still learning new things every day because of the type of environment I work in. Every day is different! But what I have learnt the most is being an apprentice is a very good thing, as when I was applying I was worried that going down this route would be difficult as I wasn’t going to university when everyone else was. However, this is not the case as I feel completely part of my organisation and I’m treated the same as every employee. I am gaining experience that I would have never been able to do if I picked a normal job or university. 

What would you say to anyone considering taking the Apprenticeship route? 
I would say go for it! It will be the best decision you will ever make. If you don’t know what you want to with your life, consider an apprenticeship as you will be gaining vital experience that may help you on your career path. If you have a keen interest in a certain area then look for an apprenticeship in that, there should be plenty for you to choose from! With an apprenticeship you will be working (earning money) and learning at the same time, which you can’t do anywhere else! Also don’t feel like it’s a bad route to go down just because you’re not studying A Levels or going to university, see it as a positive as you’re basically in a full time job, on a decent wage and learning the same sort of things as you would in university! 

Bethan

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Did you know?
A level 3 apprenticeship is also known as an advanced apprenticeship and is the equivalent educational level as 2 A Level passes.

Marketing apprenticeship external resources:

'Social media and digital marketing apprenticeships' - .gov.uk