National Apprenticeship Week: Lily’s Experience 

National Apprenticeship Week is a celebration of ambition, opportunity and the many different routes people take to build meaningful careers. It’s a moment to highlight how apprenticeships are reshaping perceptions – proving that success doesn’t follow a single, traditional path. 

Across industries, apprentices are bringing fresh perspectives, developing in-demand skills and making real contributions from day one. For employers, they represent investment in future talent. For individuals, they can open doors that once felt out of reach – offering practical experience, professional development and the confidence that comes from learning in the real world. 

Behind every apprenticeship is a personal story of growth, resilience and discovery. Lily’s journey is one of those stories. 

Here’s Lily’s experience: 

“I couldn’t let National Apprenticeship Week pass without reflecting on what this journey has meant to me. 

In May 2024, I started my Fundraiser Level 3 apprenticeship at Good Fundraising with The Juice Academy. In October 2025, I achieved a distinction. Even now, writing that feels surreal. 

The truth is, I never planned to do an apprenticeship. Like many people, I followed the “expected” path. I went through high school, completed my GCSEs, and moved on to college. But after only a few months, I realised something didn’t feel right. I felt out of place, unsure, and honestly a bit lost. It was scary to admit that the traditional route wasn’t for me. 

But I also knew something had to change. 

Choosing to step away and take a different path was one of the hardest – and best – decisions I’ve ever made. Starting my apprenticeship gave me not just qualifications, but confidence, direction and purpose. It gave me hands-on experience in a sector I genuinely care about. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, helped me grow professionally and personally, and showed me what I’m capable of when I commit to something fully. 

There were challenges, moments of doubt, and a lot of learning curves. But there was also so much support. 

To everyone who was part of my journey as an apprentice – colleagues, mentors, classmates – thank you. Your encouragement, patience and belief in me made more of a difference than you probably realise. I wouldn’t be sitting here today as Project Support Lead without the opportunities, guidance and trust you gave me along the way. 

A special thank you to my tutor, Jane Montague, for sharing your knowledge, experience and passion for fundraising and the third sector. You’ve shaped so much of what I know – and how I approach my work.  

If you’re considering an apprenticeship, or know someone who is, let this be your sign. There isn’t one “right” path. Whether you’re 17 or 60, it’s never too late to choose a route that works for you. Apprenticeships aren’t a backup option. They’re a powerful, practical and often life-changing opportunity.  

I’m so proud of how far I’ve come and even more excited about what’s still ahead.”