National Apprenticeship Week is a chance to shine a spotlight on the real stories behind apprenticeships, from inspiring young people in schools to supporting experienced colleagues who are developing new skills later in their careers. Whether it’s speaking to Year 10 students about future pathways or seeing a 50-year-old colleague embrace a new qualification, apprenticeships show that learning truly has no age limit. Across our business, apprenticeships are creating meaningful opportunities for growth, progression and community impact. Alicia Hall, our Early Careers Apprenticeship Coordinator shares two inspiring examples of learning in action.
Learning in Action: Apprenticeships on the Front Line
On Friday, ahead of National Apprenticeship Week, Alicia spent the morning on patrol with one of our Civil Enforcement Officers currently completing the Level 2 Customer Service Apprenticeship.
Michael from Rochdale NSL gave an inside look at the realities of parking enforcement, from understanding restrictions to navigating complex regulations. Michael recently decided to start an apprenticeship, a powerful reminder that learning doesn’t stop at any stage of your career. “You are never too old to learn,” Michael shared.
Alongside his apprenticeship, Michael is also strengthening his English and Maths skills, demonstrating real commitment to personal and professional development. He explained how the programme is helping him build confidence, develop new skills, and deliver even better customer service to the communities he serves every day.
For Michael, the apprenticeship offers something different and challenging. Not only will it open doors for career progression, it also supports him in his current role when supporting new starters. Ray, Team Leader at NSL Rochdale, said apprenticeships are an excellent way to support colleagues’ development, providing structured time each week to focus on learning, tasks and assignments.
Stories like Michael’s highlight the true impact of apprenticeships, not just as a route into work, but as a pathway for growth, progression and lifelong learning.
CMDA Apprentice: Back to School
Alicia visited Year 10 students at Hawkley Hall High School to share her journey and highlight the opportunities apprenticeships can offer. Alicia explained:
It was great spending time with the Year 10 students, I shared the different types of qualifications available at each level, how degree apprenticeships are funded by employers, meaning no student debt and how to find and apply for apprenticeships.
Alicia’s visit showed the impact that real-life stories can have in helping young people understand what’s possible. Apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships demonstrate that there isn’t just one route to success, there are multiple pathways to building a meaningful and sustainable career, whatever your starting point. Visits like this help make career pathways clearer and more real, bridging the gap between education and the world of work. They give students practical insight into what apprenticeships actually look like in practice and the options they might not otherwise consider.
Investing in People, Strengthening Our Future
National Apprenticeship Week reminds us that apprenticeships are not just entry routes, they are powerful development tools for colleagues at every level. Whether supporting frontline teams, strengthening essential skills, or inspiring the next generation, apprenticeships play a vital role in building capability, confidence and career progression across our organisation and communities.
If you’d like to find out more about apprenticeship opportunities, speak to the Early Careers team and take the next step in your own learning journey.
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