Apprentice success stories – Ashleigh Elliott

In this article, we will highlight the incredible apprenticeship journey of one of our past learners, Ashleigh Elliott. Starting as an HR Support Level 3 Apprentice, Ashleigh has since progressed her career, completing her CIPD Level 5 and now organising and overseeing apprenticeships for Cintra.

As a passionate advocate for apprenticeships and a member of the Apprenticeship Ambassador Network, Ashleigh has kindly shared her experience to help inspire others who are considering this route.

Read our Q&A below to learn how her apprenticeship helped shape her career and the impact it has had on her current role.

Q) What did you know about apprenticeships when leaving school?

Not very much. It wasn’t an encouraged pathway when I left education. At the time, I believed apprenticeships were mainly for trades or the beauty industry, I had no idea there were opportunities in other sectors.

Q) Did you know anyone who had done an apprenticeship?

No, I didn’t know anyone who had taken the apprenticeship route when I left school.

Q) What was your initial experience like when exploring apprenticeships and employment options?

I had started a role where I was shadowing and learning about HR. When the HR Assistant left, I moved into that role and decided to take on an apprenticeship alongside my job. It was a big adjustment going from just working to working and studying, but I was really pleased with the opportunity as I got to learn so much that I wouldn’t have learned otherwise in that role.

Q) Can you summarise your apprenticeship experience?

It was a rewarding challenge. I learned valuable HR theory that I was able to apply in my job, and I developed key skills such as time management, balancing responsibilities, and managing expectations, all of which are crucial to my role today.

Q) How did Penshaw View and your trainer support you?

My trainer was excellent, she was my super star. She was incredibly supportive, always available to answer questions, and played a huge role in shaping how I now support our own apprentices.

Q) What was the best part of developing yourself through an apprenticeship?

Knowing I was capable of completing it! It really boosted my confidence in HR and sparked my passion for apprenticeships.

Q) Did you face any challenges while on the programme?

Yes, I was made redundant while studying, which was a massive shock. It left me in a difficult situation, but Penshaw View supported me through it. I was able to progress quickly to Gateway and successfully passed with a distinction.

Q) Now that you organise apprenticeships in your organisation, how do you promote them?

I’m a strong advocate for apprenticeships and regularly discuss their value with managers and department heads. I highlight how they contribute to business growth and provide valuable opportunities, whether as a first step into the workforce or as a career-changing opportunity. We also run an internal network for apprentices to connect with like-minded professionals across different teams.

Q) Why did you decide to join the Apprenticeship Ambassador Network (AAN)?

I’m passionate about the impact apprenticeships can have on careers, and I wanted to extend that message beyond my organisation. Being part of the AAN allows me to speak with students, parents, and career changers about the opportunities apprenticeships offer.

Q) What advice would you give to anyone considering an apprenticeship?

It’s a big commitment, but if you stay focused, it’s an amazing way to learn and build your career. Do your research on providers and businesses to ensure it’s the right fit for you. Most importantly, ask questions—there’s no such thing as a silly question!

Ashleigh’s apprenticeship journey demonstrates the value of work-based learning and the opportunities it can provide. From overcoming challenges to discovering a passion for apprenticeships, her experience has shaped her career and influenced how she now supports learners in her organisation.

We’d like to congratulate Ashleigh on her achievements and thank her for sharing her journey with us. Stories like hers highlight the power of apprenticeships in transforming careers and boosting self-confidence.

If you’re interested in exploring an apprenticeship or training programme to take the next step in your career, contact our team today.