Ellamay Ward is currently doing a Business Administrator Apprenticeship, where she’s gaining hands-on experience in the field. In this interview, she discusses her journey so far, the challenges she’s faced, and her aspirations for the future.

1. What inspired you to choose an apprenticeship over other career paths, and how has it shaped your journey so far?

I chose an apprenticeship because I wanted to start working and learning at the same time. Since I didn’t have prior experience in the working world, I saw it as a great opportunity to get a real feel for what it’s like. It seemed like the perfect way to gain hands-on experience while also working towards a qualification. The apprenticeship has really shaped my journey by allowing me to learn directly in a business environment, helping me build practical skills that I wouldn’t have gained through traditional college alone.

2. Can you share a moment during your apprenticeship that made you feel particularly proud?

One moment I felt really proud was when I helped manage a charity event for the first time. While it wasn’t a completely solo effort, I was responsible for key tasks like selling cakes, talking to customers about the charity, emailing staff to keep them informed, and creating posters to promote the event. It was a bit challenging but seeing everything come together and knowing I played a part in it made me realize how much I had learned in such a short time. I was proud of how I handled the responsibilities, and the positive feedback from my team was really encouraging. We ended up raising a lot of money, and I felt good knowing my role contributed to that success.

3. What’s one surprising thing you’ve learned about your industry or yourself during your apprenticeship?

One surprising thing I’ve learned is how important the behind-the-scenes roles are in keeping the business running smoothly. Before starting, I didn’t fully appreciate how much the support and admin work influences a company’s overall success. I’ve also discovered a lot about my own work ethic—how I manage pressure and deadlines, and how much I enjoy solving problems in creative ways. For instance, I really enjoy tasks like designing flyers, creating PowerPoints, and setting up fundraising pages.

4. How has your apprenticeship helped you grow professionally and personally?

Professionally, my apprenticeship has taught me how to manage tasks and prioritize effectively. I’ve learned a lot about communication, team collaboration, and business operations. Personally, I think it’s boosted my confidence in a work setting, and I’ve become more independent. It’s also helped me develop time management skills as I balance work, study, and life.

5. What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship as their next step?

My advice would be to not hesitate and take the opportunity! Apprenticeships are a great way to gain practical experience, build your network, and get a qualification at the same time. It might seem daunting at first, but it’s a great way to figure out what you enjoy and what you’re good at while getting paid for it.