Name: Elena Winstanley
Age: 22
Home town: Wigan
Job: Communications Apprentice
Start date: 21 May 2018
Completion date: 7 July 2020

How did you find your apprenticeship?

“I really enjoyed my apprenticeship at North West Ambulance Service as I developed strong relationships with my colleagues, gained valuable experience whilst learning, developed my current skills and even learnt new skills.”

What encouraged you to take undertake the apprenticeship?

“I didn’t want to go to university as I wasn’t exactly sure which course I wanted to take and wanted to stay in work. After researching about apprenticeships, I found the apprenticeship route was the best route for me as I was able to learn, gain a qualification, earn money and gain experience at the same time.”

What learning do you do as part of the apprenticeship and what qualifications will you gain?

“I gained a level 3 business administration qualification.”

How are you benefitting from doing an apprenticeship as opposed to college or university study?

“I was able to gain experience which will help me if I wanted to progress in the near future and has saved me a lot of money.”

What advice would you give to other people considering an apprenticeship?

“There are so many different apprenticeships out there and it is never too late to start an apprenticeship so check out different recruitment sites and as apprenticeships can help you get your dream job, university isn’t always the way forward as experience makes the difference.”