6th-12th February is National Apprenticeship Week, bringing together businesses and apprentices across the country to shine a light on apprentices' positive impact on individuals, businesses and the wider economy.
Supporting the development of talent is of utmost importance to us at Ilex Content Strategies. We understand the value in individuals being able to start their career experience from day one by learning and earning on the job. Exposing apprentices to client work and calls from their first day allows for a wider understanding of the sector through hands-on, industry experience.
Three apprentices from our team at Ilex have shared their experiences below having embarked on different apprenticeship programs.
Arwen Linfield-Haplik, Level 6 BA Digital Marketing Apprentice
“My apprenticeship journey at Ilex has been a life-changing experience. I started with minimal knowledge in the Marketing, PR and Communications field and over two years, this has changed massively. I began with a Level 3 apprenticeship in Digital Marketing that gave me a strong foundation of knowledge. It is difficult to put into words the value of working alongside learning as I could simply not have learned the practical skills I have now by pursuing a route at university.
From day one, I was involved in client work and meetings, being face-to-face with huge players in the industry that allowed me to gain more knowledge than a textbook ever could. Navigating through 18 months of coursework alongside a full-time job let me perform to my full potential and gave me opportunities to experience things in my career that I thought wouldn’t be possible until 5-10 years down the line.
After completing my level 3 and taking a few months break from the apprenticeship life, I knew I wanted to push myself further. Ilex has given me the opportunity to take on a Level 6 degree in Digital Marketing while continuing my role and evolving both my academic and real-life understanding of the marketing field. With an apprenticeship, you are able to bring so much to the table and understand how to put your academic knowledge into practice while understanding the underlying theories behind it.
I couldn’t recommend Ilex enough if you’re looking for a workplace which supports your personal goals, drives you to a successful career in marketing and has an element of fun with our monthly team away days!”
Olga Andrade, Level 3 Junior Content Producer Apprenticeship
“At 30 years old, I never thought I'd be starting a new career, but that's precisely what happened when I stumbled upon a content producer apprenticeship with Ilex. I have always had a passion for creative writing and visual storytelling, but I never pursued it as a career. The thought of starting over was daunting, but I decided to take the leap and apply for the apprenticeship.
The apprenticeship program with Ilex has been an incredible experience, and I'm learning so much every day. I can now follow my dream career and work with a talented team of professionals in the marketing industry. I've been able to hone my writing and visual storytelling skills, and I'm constantly learning new techniques and strategies. The hands-on training and mentorship I receive from my team have been invaluable, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to grow and develop as a content producer.
It's never too late to pursue your passion and follow your dreams. I'm proof of that. At 30 years old, I was able to start over and embark on a new career path, and I couldn't be happier. If you're stuck in your current career or looking for a change, I encourage you to take a chance and try something new.”
Tilly Godzisz, Level 4 Public Relations Apprenticeship
“An apprenticeship was never the route I imagined myself going down. Being pushed through the University tunnel in Sixth Form made me feel as though it was the only route. Until I found this apprenticeship scheme. I was always told that apprenticeships were for those who weren’t academic. But that is far from the truth. Apprenticeships are for anyone. They are an ideal way to kickstart your career, providing valuable industry experience.
This apprenticeship has opened my eyes to the world of PR and marketing. Since my first day, I have been involved in client work and benefitted hugely from the extent of exposure my role has provided me with. Having an active role in client communications has helped me develop the foundational skills, crucial to PR, that I would have had to wait for had I gone to University.
If you are considering starting an apprenticeship, weigh up your options and apply to ones that will suit your ambitions and goals. The key with an apprenticeship is that you are constantly learning and evolving, so be ready to give it your all. Ultimately, enjoy the experience and soak up all the knowledge and expertise of your team.”
We hope that our apprentices have provided valuable insight into what an apprenticeship has to offer. If you would like more information from these members of the team, find them on LinkedIn:
@Arwen Linfield-Haplik
@OlgaHAndrade
@Tilly Godzisz
We’re always looking for fresh talent to join the team. To learn more about our apprenticeship schemes, contact us today: info@ilexcontent.com