An apprenticeship can help you achieve more than you ever thought possible
I saw a job advert online whilst looking for a career change, and at first I didn’t apply for it. However, as days went by, I couldn’t stop thinking about it, which was unusual for me. After thinking deep down why I couldn’t shake that feeling, I thought maybe it’s something I need to apply for. Ever since, it’s been the best decision of my life. I have worked in a few, what felt like, dead-end jobs. I started in an office where I thrived until I felt I couldn’t achieve much more. I did event work on the side from brand ambassador roles, traffic management, acting to rigging. I was working in a factory when I applied for this role, as that is what made me realise I wanted a hands-on job. My brother is a mechanic, and whenever I would visit him at the garage he worked at, the atmosphere felt more homely than work and I loved that everyone was themselves. Seeing him work on cars gave me an excitement that I had not felt before, which in turn prompted me to look at jobs within the motor industry.
My usual day starts by reviewing the tasks assigned to me by my manager, bringing in a car, and carrying out all the necessary work from beginning to end. I take care of any damage to the vehicle or wheels, prepare and mask the area for painting, then refinish it. The jobs can range from smaller smart repairs to larger jobs like insurance work. After finishing one job, I move on to the next. I feel truly fortunate to be an apprentice at Sytner BMW Cardiff, as they let me handle extensive tasks even as an apprentice. I have already completed two full resprays, including a colour change, which has given me valuable opportunities to learn from my mistakes.
An apprenticeship typically requires Maths and English GCSEs. It is essential to demonstrate a strong work ethic, maintain a positive outlook, show initiative, and be receptive to new ideas. As with any apprenticeship, passion for the role can significantly enhance your chances of success. My interest in cars and dedication to my trade have enabled me to access further opportunities, including receiving two awards to date.
One of the greatest aspects of my job is that I can manage my tasks independently from start to finish, with support from my mentor if needed. I enjoy setting challenges for myself and working through my day by establishing personal goals. Completing a task gives me a real sense of achievement and satisfaction as I look back at my work. Witnessing the transformation of a car from when it arrives to when it leaves is incredibly rewarding. This motivates me because, in past roles where I didn’t feel accomplished, I soon lost interest. My days fly by, and I genuinely look forward to going to work, which I find essential.
After finishing school, I watched friends head off to college and university and worried I’d missed my chance at a good career. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. I’ve already achieved so much as an apprentice, and the possibilities just keep growing. If you’re considering a trade, I strongly suggest the apprenticeship path since you learn while working. It provides real-world experience as you earn your qualifications.
At school apprenticeships were discussed and available, but trade apprenticeships weren’t really promoted to women. If trade options had been presented to me earlier, I probably would have looked into them much sooner. Now, I’m the first female technician at Sytner BMW Cardiff bodyshop. This apprenticeship has truly changed my life, helping me find my purpose, and being a woman in a male-dominated field has had no negative impact. We’re all treated equally, exactly as we should be.
At first, I found everything challenging due to my lack of experience in this role. However, with support from my colleagues over the past couple of years, each obstacle has become easier, and I now feel confident in most areas of my job. The tasks that remain the most difficult are those that require significant time to master.
My advice to anyone wanting to get an apprenticeship is to find something you will enjoy because I do believe when you put love into something it pays off. To show the company you are applying for, that you are keen to learn and happy to be there. Since the workplace is where you spend a significant amount of time, it is important to ensure it remains a positive and enjoyable environment. Make sure to ask questions and show initiative; you can never ask too many questions!
Do not compare yourself to others. This is what I sometimes struggle with, but everyone learns at their own pace and the people you work with may have been doing the job for much longer. While the apprenticeship pay might deter some people initially, the qualifications and career advancement you gain will ultimately be worthwhile.
Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience rather than just classroom learning, providing opportunities for those who prefer active work. Don’t assume that you won’t succeed simply because you struggle with traditional classroom settings, an apprenticeship can help you achieve more than you ever thought possible.
