When Jon looks back at the period before starting his apprenticeship, he describes it as a time of uncertainty, but also possibility. He knew he wanted to work, gain experience, and build a future—but the traditional routes didn’t quite feel right.
An apprenticeship offered something different. It combined hands-on experience with structured learning, allowing Jon to develop real skills while working towards a qualification. As he puts it, “learning while actually doing the job” felt like the most practical way to start his career.
From the very beginning, Jon’s expectations were quickly surpassed. While he anticipated gaining technical skills, he didn’t realise how much his confidence would grow along the way. Being trusted with responsibility and treated as a valued member of the team helped him settle into the role faster than he expected.
A typical week as an apprentice is varied. Some days are focused on practical, on-the-job tasks, while others involve training, reflection, and developing the knowledge that supports his role. This balance has allowed Jon to build not only job-specific skills, but also broader strengths such as communication, organisation, and problem-solving.
Jon and his tutor Andrea
Support has been a defining part of Jon’s experience. Throughout his apprenticeship, tutors, mentors, and managers have provided guidance, reassurance, and encouragement. Knowing that help was always available made it easier to tackle new challenges with confidence.
Like any learning journey, there were moments that tested him—particularly when balancing work responsibilities with training requirements. However, these challenges became opportunities to grow. With the right support in place, Jon learned how to manage his time, ask for help when needed, and approach problems with a solution-focused mindset.
As Jon progressed, he began to see the real impact of his work. Contributing to his team and supporting wider business goals helped him feel valued and motivated. Being able to make a difference, even as an apprentice, reinforced his sense of purpose and belonging in the workplace.
One of Jon’s proudest achievements is the personal and professional growth he’s experienced. He’s more confident in his abilities, more comfortable taking initiative, and more aware of his strengths.
Jon running the Social Witch Project’s Online Harms Forum
The apprenticeship has had a lasting influence on Jon’s career goals. It has given him clarity about the direction he wants to take and opened doors he hadn’t previously considered. Where there was once uncertainty, there is now confidence and ambition.
Jon feels far more prepared for the future than he did before starting the apprenticeship, with a strong foundation of experience and skills to build on.
When asked what advice he would give to others considering an apprenticeship, Jon is clear: it’s a route that offers genuine value. For learners, it provides experience, confidence, and qualifications. For employers, it brings enthusiasm, commitment, and fresh perspectives.
If Jon had to sum up his apprenticeship experience in just three words, they would be:
Challenging. Rewarding. Transformative.
