Apprenticeship Ambassador Case Studies

School life

At school, Carrieanne took part in a work placement and work experience, which gave her some idea of her future career path. At the time, she believed she would go on to work in the same industry as her school work experience. However, that experience turned out to be a turning point.

"My work experience at school made me realise that it was not an industry I wanted to be in. It wouldn't suit the type of individual I was."

What apprenticeship did you do?

After overcoming a few challenging years Carrieanne decided that University was not for her, instead she undertook a Graduate Apprenticeship and is now working as a Junior Buyer.

What does DYW meant to you?

DYW has taught me that learning is always an option and isn't restricted by age. It can be done in so many different ways and isn't stuck to the traditional classroom route. This is so important for young people in rural areas, so they know what is on offer for them.

"In my school we didn't have the opportunities that DYW offer in Moray. If I had, I think I would be a much more confident individual."

School life

While at school, Amy took part in career events and a mock interview, but at that stage she was not clear about her future career path. Her early expectations were limited to two options: university or working at the local fish factory. After speaking with the RAF at a career fair, Amy explored other options and found an opportunity with Boeing.

"I realised there were a lot more opportunities and options than just university."

Why an apprenticeship?

After receiving university offers for nursing, Amy spent time in hospital and was diagnosed with a serious health condition. Experiencing that environment first-hand made her realise nursing was not the right path. A last-minute rethink led her to search for apprenticeships.

What does DYW mean to you?

Amy is proud to be an apprenticeship ambassador and support others. She is inspired by helping their younger siblings successfully applying for apprenticeship opportunities. Even if it's just a helping hand or a boost of confidence, she is inspired to do this for other young people.

"I don't think I would've done so well in the interview if I hadn't had mock interview experience. Part-time job interviews aren't nearly as professional as the Boeing interview, so knowing what to expect really helped."

School life

At school, Ben took part in CV and interview support and a mock interview. He already had a strong idea that he wanted to work as a ground worker, although he wasn't completely certain about his pathway. While employer engagement didn't change his career direction, it helped build his confidence, especially through school presentations.

"I had never spoken to a large group of people before and it greatly improved my confidence to do so."

What does DYW mean to you?

DYW is important because it helps to develop confidence and this about future plans.

"It improves confidence and can help a young person go down the path that works for them."

Why an apprenticeship?

Ben left school at 16 with very few qualifications and went straight into work. After a few role, he was advised that gaining a trade would help secure his future, which led him to apply for an apprenticeship with Springfield. Ben successfully gained a place in either joinery or groundworks and is now training as an Apprentice Ground Worker. His story shows that starting work early, gaining experience, and building confidence can lead to long-term career opportunities - even without a traditional academic route.

School life

While at school, Evie took part in an employer class talk, but at that stage she was not clear about her future career path, and had no fixed idea of what she wanted to do next. After leaving Elgin Academy, Evie notice that most of her peers were heading off to university, but she didn't feel that route was right for her.

"It's okay not to have everything figured out straight away."

Why an apprenticeship?

A careers advisor suggested college, so she enrolled on an HNC course. However, after just a couple of weeks, Evie realised it wasn't the right fit and the decision to step away.

What does DYW mean to you?

DYW if important because it shares real-life stories about how people got to where they are now and explains the different routes into the workplace.

"It helps pupils see that there's more than one way forward."

Progress

Evie successfully completed her apprenticeship in just 10 months and was then offered the chance to progress into a different department - leading her into her current role as Property Assistant.

School life

Lia worked hard throughout school, achieving straight As in her Highers before deciding to leave early and take a year out. She spent that year working in accountancy before starting university to study primary teaching. Although she originally thought teaching would be her long-term path, she soon realised it wasn't the right fit. At the time, employer engagement opportunities weren't widely available in her school, so she explored different routes on her own, trying out various roles before finding her direction.

What does DYW mean to you?

DYW plays a vital role in helping young people understand the range of opportunities available. It helps to explore different pathways early in your career journey.

"Employer engagement can make your journey clearer and more supported."

Why an apprenticeship?

Lia applied for a role at Baxters and was offered the chance to complete a Graduate Apprenticeship. This became a turning point. The structure, support and real-world experience helped her build confidence and recognise her own abilities. Four years later, she has progressed through four different roles and built a career she's proud of.

"Once I got settled in my career path, doing the GA and having Aimee's support massively helped my confidence and belief in my own ability."