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To celebrate National Careers Week, we’re shining a spotlight on the talented apprentices currently shaping their futures at global tech company and Community Trust and Club principle partner, Ideagen.

For many young people, the decision between university and an apprenticeship can be a tough one, but for Ruby, a second-year marketing apprentice, the choice was clear.

Now 18 months into her apprenticeship at Ideagen, she has gained invaluable experience and developed a passion for hands-on learning.

A Practical Approach to Learning

Ruby initially applied to university and was accepted, but she quickly realised it wasn’t the right fit for her having been steered toward this career choice by her college.

“I’m more of a practical learner rather than going through the typical education route. The idea of a hands-on experience excited me more than university – plus, the thought of all that debt!” she explains.

Her journey into the apprenticeship world began when a Think Big workshop was delivered at her college.

“I was immediately engaged by the programme – being a part of the workshop really sparked my interest.

“We were informed that as part of the programme, there were apprenticeships available, so, I applied via email, turned up for the skills day, and met loads of interesting people. Hearing more about Ideagen and their values really caught my attention.”

Evolving Roles and Skills

Ruby’s role has evolved significantly since she started. Initially focused on content creation, web landing pages, PPC, and SEO, she has now moved into campaign management, webinars, and events. With her dynamic role, she has embraced new challenges and increased her skillset.

“The most valuable skill I’ve learnt is communication. I used to be scared to ask for help, but now I’ll happily reach out when I need it.”

Her biggest challenge so far? Stepping out of her comfort zone.

“I remember one time; I had to do a presentation to a group of people at Ideagen. Being the only apprentice in the room made it daunting but I managed to complete it and felt a sense of accomplishment.

“Looking back now, I was definitely out of my comfort zone and I felt I could have done better in terms of confidence. But I took it on board and learnt from it – my confidence has improved massively”

Support and Learning

Balancing work and education is a key part of any apprenticeship. Ruby attends monthly workshops with different themes and completes six hours of distance learning each week, integrating her assignments with real-world projects and responsibilities as part of her job.

She credits her team and the People team at Ideagen for their support. “My manager helps align my live work with my educational learning. They’ve even helped me look at future education options for when my apprenticeship ends.”

Looking Ahead

As Ruby nears the end of her two-year apprenticeship, she’s already considering her next steps.

“Hopefully, I’ll have the opportunity to learn more—either through a higher-level apprenticeship or personal growth. I’d love a full-time role or even a Level 6 or degree apprenticeship.”

Long term, she sees the marketing skills she’s continually developing key to achieving her entrepreneurial ambitions.

“Marketing is a fundamental function for any business owner. One day, I’d love to have my own business.”

Breaking Misconceptions

Apprenticeships have many perceptions and not all positive, and Ruby is passionate about changing the narrative.

“People assume they’re only for young or inexperienced people or manual jobs on building sites.

“All my friends went to university, but I’ve taken a different route, and it’s working for me.

“You can start a journey and change it to something you really want to do.”

Her advice to others considering an apprenticeship?

“Just do it. I was so concerned about my next steps after college, having already done a Level 3 course, I thought, am I going backwards by doing another Level 3 and though it was an unconventional route. But now, I’m doing a Level 3 in something I actually want to do.

“Don’t overthink it.”

Would she recommend an apprenticeship? Absolutely.

“It’s not just about the knowledge—you learn about business culture, office dynamics, and things university won’t teach you.”