Dexter Hitchings, Edge Foundation My journey from GCSEs to an apprenticeship took, what felt like, a very long two years. At school the message was unequivocal. The key to success is simple – get your A-levels and go to university. I never felt I had the information I needed to make a well-informed decision about my future. I chose to go to sixth-form, but quickly realised this wasn’t the right choice. I moved to my local FE College, but felt let down by the lack of contact hours. Finally I decided that, having worked or volunteered from the age of 14, an apprenticeship might suit my needs better. My search for an apprenticeship was time consuming. Not having received any careers advice or guidance, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do for what could be, the rest of my working life. There is so much choice and applying can be a long process. I found checking the ‘Find an Apprenticeship’ website regularly not only allows you to stay on top of the high volume of apprenticeships added daily, but also means you can be one of the first to apply. Another tip I would suggest is to find a provider or college who offers a range of apprenticeships that interest you. Meet them, tell them what you’re looking for, and they can play an active role in helping you find it. I thought about what I enjoyed most and decided on a digital marketing apprenticeship. In February 2017, I was extremely happy to accept a Level 3 apprenticeship with the Edge Foundation. On completion, 12 months later, I was offered a full-time role. My journey wasn’t plain sailing. My training provider was 3aaa, who, we now know, were not as ‘Outstanding’ as we all thought. Luckily for me, I had an incredible employer. Edge have not just been understanding, but have always offered me support and extra training. They chose to pay me the market rate from the day I started and have always made me feel like a valued member of the team. I have had the support and opportunities to excel. I have been given projects to look after and the responsibility and trust to work independently, as well as part of the larger team.
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