At AO, the sky’s the limit when it comes to professional development! We’re passionate about helping our people unlock their full potential by offering a wide range of nationally recognised qualifications.
We have over 60 apprenticeship development programs, so whether our AOers are in Tech, Contact Centre, Logistics, Finance, or more, we’ve got them covered with top training providers, ensuring they get the best learning experience possible. Our apprenticeships are a dynamic blend of expert-led training, digital learning, and hands-on experience.
And as proud members of the 5% Club, we’re committed to developing and upskilling our people to create meaningful careers. With 5% of our workforce dedicated to earn-and-learn opportunities, we’re building a future filled with growth and success.
So how do we shout about this? Every year, we get together to celebrate and educate about National Apprenticeship Week, by telling AOer stories, holding taster sessions, and much more!
This year we asked 5 of our apprenticeship learners to talk about their experiences, here’s what they said…
What is your name and job title?
Alexandra, Logistics Contact Centre Team Manager
Which apprenticeship did you study?
Level 3 Team Leader / Supervisor
You recently completed your apprenticeship, with Distinction, congratulations! How does it feel?
It feels amazing! After months of hard work, it’s a huge relief and so rewarding to see my efforts recognised, and receiving the results filled me with joy and pride. It’s motivated me to keep pushing forward in my career.
Did you have any preconceptions about apprenticeships before you started? And, did they change?
I thought the apprenticeship would be overwhelming and hard to balance with work. While allocated learning days made it manageable, losing them added pressure, but with my coach’s support I could move forward. This taught me that apprenticeships are challenging but achievable with the right support.
What is your name and job title?
Max, Trade Marketing Executive
Which apprenticeship did you study?
Currently studying Level 6 Marketing Manager, previously completed Level 4 Marketing Executive
How have you grown and developed whilst doing an apprenticeship?
The apprenticeship has been a transformative journey. I’ve become more confident in my abilities, improved my time- management skills, and developed resilience. Balancing work and study has taught me how to prioritise and stay organised
What are you looking forward to about your apprenticeship?
Deepening my understanding of strategic marketing and leadership. It offers me a chance to lead projects and drive marketing strategies
Is there anything else you’d like to say?
Embrace every opportunity that comes your way and make the most of your apprenticeship. It’s about both professional skills and personal growth. Stay curious, proactive, and open to feedback, as these experiences will shape your career.
What is your name and job title?
Becca, Commercial Analyst
Which apprenticeship are you studying?
Female forward level 3
What made you decide to go for an apprenticeship?
I’ve always been eager to learn but when my manager first sent over the details, I doubted I was capable. Looking back, I realize I had imposter syndrome, and that actually motivated me to push through and overcome it
How has your apprenticeship positively impacted your career journey?
I’m more open to change now and tackling new opportunities with an “I can” attitude. I’m stepping out of my comfort zone and trying things I wouldn’t have considered before
How have you grown and developed as a person whilst doing an apprenticeship?
My confidence was always the biggest obstacle. It’s stopped me attempting things in the past because I doubted myself. I’ve come a long way since the start of the course, and while there’s more to learn, I’m really proud of how much I’ve improved so far
How have you found balancing work with apprenticeship study?
It’s been challenging at times, especially during peak, when my role gets more demanding. Finding the right balance took time, and I had to be kind to myself when I couldn’t stay on track. Luckily, I’ve always managed to catch up when needed. Having a supportive manager and a great team has been key!
What is your name and job title?
Clare, Trade Marketing Manager
Which apprenticeship did you study?
Currently studying Level 6 Marketing Manager, previously completed Level 4 Marketing Executive
How have you grown and developed as a person whilst doing an apprenticeship?
I’ve grown in confidence and knowledge generally in all areas of Marketing
What are you looking forward to about completing your apprenticeship?
Continuing to build my knowledge in marketing, and begin to support with bigger, more strategic projects and activations going forwards
What would you say to any AOers who are thinking about an apprenticeship?
Go for it!
Anything else you’d like to say?
Just a big thank you to the business and my line managers for allowing me the opportunity to undertake this training and all their help and support along the way.
What is your name and job title?
Chrissy, People Services & Analytics Manager
Which apprenticeship are you studying?
Level 7 Applied Data Analytics MSc
What made you decide to go for an apprenticeship?
The opportunity to learn at the same time as working, whilst ensuring the learning is applicable to my role. I learn best when I’m able to apply it quickly.
What has been your biggest learning take away so far?
The need to plan has been key but I’ve also learnt that I have to build in flexibility for when urgent pieces of work arrive
How have you grown and developed as a person whilst doing an apprenticeship?
My time management has become better. I always thought of myself as an organised person, but it’s had to be at another level to be able to juggle work, home and study
What would you say to any AOers who are thinking about an apprenticeship?
Take the opportunity – you’ll always be able to find reasons why not to, but there’s no time like the present to invest in your own development. The sooner you start, the sooner you can
unlock the benefits.