As part of our #futureworkforce initiative, we have researched some case studies from other areas in the UK to illustrate the variety of industry sectors now participating in an apprenticeship scheme.

Jamie-Renée Cooke started her apprenticeship with South Gloucestershire Council in 2015 year studying a Level 4 leadership and management course with South Gloucestershire and Stroud College.

Jamie works in the Economic Development Team at the council offices in Yate. The team is responsible for promoting South Gloucestershire and the West of England to the business community and encouraging new business to invest in the region.

Jamie explains:

‘I didn’t want to go to university, because I knew it wasn’t for me, but I wanted to continue to learn, so the apprenticeship seemed to be the perfect option. Whilst working and learning new skills at South Gloucestershire Council, I also attend college one morning a week studying for the Institute in Leadership and Management at Level 4. For me it gives me fantastic on the job experience alongside the qualifications which will help me to progress my career. I enjoy the combination of work and studying that an apprenticeship offers. The support I have from fellow colleagues is brilliant and no two days are the same.’

Jamie secured a permanent role with the council last year when she began her Level 4 higher apprenticeship, having already passed a Level 3 advanced apprenticeship in Business Administration the previous year, working for a partner organisation.

George Kousouros, Community Enterprise Officer and Jamie’s line manager said:

‘Apprenticeships are very rewarding for both the employees and the employer. For us it is fantastic to have enthusiastic young people to join the teams to offer help, support and fresh ideas. And for them, it provides them with the perfect opportunity to gain experience and qualifications while getting paid.’

Jamie was named Bristol Post’s Apprentice of the Year 2016 and has since become an ambassador of the apprenticeship model.

‘I like to shout about the apprenticeship route, because it is still a bit underestimated I think, people don’t realise it is a real alternative to university and that it is a different route to get to where you want to be. My friends who are a similar age to me have all gone down the uni route and we are now in similar jobs at a similar pay level and I think it shows that you can do the same kind of thing just a different way.’

Since the awards last year Jamie-Renée’s career has really progressed and she has proved beyond doubt that apprenticeships offer a great opportunity to earn and learn with excellent career prospects.

Check out the short video below to hear direct from Jamie her views on the apprenticeship study option.

Thanks to South Gloucester and Stroud College and The Bristol Post