We are still recruiting members to the apprentice panel in the following sectors, Care Services, Protective Services and Hair and Beauty.
Role of the Apprentice Panel
The apprentice panel brings together apprentices from a wide range of backgrounds. Their different experiences and views help to inform all areas of IfATE’s work.
Panel members attend IfATE board meetings to update on panel activity. They also offer the board advice and challenge on relevant issues. From time to time, they meet with ministers and other government officials. This helps to make sure that new polices take account of what matters to apprentices.
Panel members represent apprenticeship levels and occupations from 15 major business sectors. The 15 sectors are:
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agriculture, environmental and animal care
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business and administration
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care services
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catering and hospitality
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construction
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creative and design
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digital
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education and childcare
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engineering and manufacturing
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hair and beauty
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health and science
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legal, finance and accounting
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protective services
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sales, marketing, and procurement
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transport and logistics.
The panel is chaired by an apprentice panel member and supported by IfATE staff.
Read the apprentice panel’s terms of reference.
The Panel's work and impact
The panel chooses the things it wants to focus on. It then works with IfATE and others to create a better apprentice experience.
In the past year, the panel has led or contributed to a variety of projects and discussions aimed at improving the apprentice experience:
Designed and delivered its second national survey of apprentices
- panel members that worked on the second national survey of apprentices are now working with the Department for Education (DfE) and others to deliver six survey recommendations
Updated and relaunched its guide to delivering quality apprenticeships, called Raising the Standards
- the Raising the Standards guide is aimed at employers, training providers and apprentices. It reflects findings from the panel’s two national surveys and includes case studies from panel members themselves
Input views and ideas to help shape key areas of IfATE’s work, including:
- development of IfATE’s environmental and climate change skills strategy. The strategy aims to ensure that technical education contributes to meeting environmental and climate change goals
- development of IfATE’s occupational maps. The maps are designed to give employers and individuals a clearer view of where technical education can lead
- development of IfATE’s equity, diversity, and inclusion strategy. This strategy aims to ensure opportunities exist for people from all backgrounds
Input views and ideas to inform activity led by other government departments, including:
- DfE research into why apprentices withdraw from their apprenticeships.
- development and launch of a new, online Apprentice Support Centre. The Support Centre improves access to information and networking opportunities for current apprentices
- improvements to Ofqual’s Register of Regulated Qualifications. This work will make the Register more useful for those who need information about qualifications
Participated in campaigns and events to promote the benefits and opportunities apprenticeships offer
- Amy Marren is a former Paralympian turned apprentice solicitor. She shared her story in a blog post for International Day of Persons with Disabilities
- panel members attended the launch of IfATE’s report on creating a simpler skills system at the House of Lords
JOIN THE PANEL
Every year, IfATE invites current apprentices to apply to join the panel. If you wish to apply, contact the apprentice panel via email.
Visit our apprentice panel campaign page to find out more.
GET IN TOUCH
Are you an apprentice? Would you like to find out more about the work of the panel? Or do you want to share your views and ideas on improving the apprentice experience? You can get in touch by emailing us.
Members of the apprentice panel
Alexia Williams (Chair)
Employer: Rolls-Royce PLC
Apprenticeship: Through-life Engineering Services Specialist Master's Degree apprentice (level 7)
Training provider: Cranfield University
Assigned route: Engineering and manufacturing
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
My active involvement in promoting STEM careers, from my prior role as an Aerospace Engineering Degree Apprentice to my current position as a Master's Apprentice, has provided me with the knowledge and skills necessary to make valuable contributions to panel discussions and to enhance apprenticeship initiatives. One of my core interests lies in motivating and empowering young women to excel in engineering, as well as breaking down gender stereotypes in this field. I aspire to expand apprenticeship opportunities to a broader audience, thereby helping to address the gender disparity that exists in these professions.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I am currently doing a Level 7 Through-life Engineering Services Specialist Master’s Degree Apprenticeship which is a 2-year course. I am doing this alongside having a full-time role as a Deployed Lifecycle Engineer. This apprenticeship provides the skills, knowledge, and behaviours to become a future leader in organisations wishing to optimise the value in-use and cost in-use for long-life engineering assets.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I used to compete as a national-level high diver until the age of 18, and now I coach high diving, instructing both adults and children at a lake in Bristol.
Arjun Rai (Vice-chair)
Employer: Turner and Townsend
Apprenticeship: Project Manager Apprentice, level 4
Training provider: BPP
Assigned route: Transport and Logistics
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I joined the panel to make a difference. Apprenticeships are on the rise, and I want to be a part of making them a consistent success across different industries.
I also joined to develop my own skills- being the Co Vice chair means my leadership, critical thinking and teamwork abilities are constantly improving.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
Level 4 Project management Apprenticeship at National Highways. My apprenticeship lasts 2 years. Alongside the Level 4 qualification I also take the APM Project management qualification. I work in Major Projects which means the big schemes that most people see on the A roads and Motorways.
What is an interesting fact about you?
At 15 years old I became a fully qualified Lifeguard and worked as one up to the age of 19.
Dilraj Singh Bharj (Vice-chair)
Employer: Severn Trent
Apprenticeship: Commercial procurement and supply level 4
Training provider: Charted Institute of Procurement and Supply
Assigned route: Sales, marketing and procurement
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I wanted to join the Apprentice Panel because since joining an Apprenticeship scheme I have seen myself grow as an individual so much and I want to educate people around the real benefits that Apprenticeship schemes can offer. I had initially taken the university route however decided mid-way through my degree to change my career pathway. As a panel member, I wanted to make sure that people who are thinking of making a similar choice to me feel represented and being a panel member allows me to do this!
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I am currently undertaking a L4 Commercial Procurement & Supply Apprenticeship with Severn Trent alongside working towards my CIPS qualification. The procurement department essentially looks after everything an organisation purchases and any relationships that it has with suppliers. I really enjoy my role as it allows me to visit different sites and network with different people and organisations on a daily basis!
What is an interesting fact about you?
I have actually done an interview with the stars of the Paddington movie!
Tamzin Greenfield
Employer: Cyber Security Associates
Apprenticeship: Cyber Security Technical Professional Level 6
Training provider: University of Gloucestershire
Assigned route: Digital
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I joined the panel because I knew that the apprenticeship experience could be improved, and that joining a group of like-minded individuals would be the best way to action this improvement. Apprenticeships are quickly becoming a real contender for further education, and I want to help make them more accessible.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I'm undertaking a Level 6 Cyber security technical professional integrated degree. A lot of words to say I'm completing a Bachelors of Science degree in the standard 3 year duration at University, whilst working a full time job with my employer Cyber Security Associates. It's a fantastic choice for someone who wants both a degree and experience within their sector, which is very important for careers based in tech.
What is an interesting fact about you?
Before I got into cyber security, I wanted to work in fashion and design.
Santina Bunting
Employer: Arup Group
Apprenticeship: Civil engineering level 3
Training provider: Salford & Trafford Engineering Group Training Association
Assigned route: Construction and the built environment
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
As the only person out of 150 secondary school students to undertake an apprenticeship I understood the overwhelming value this untraditional route presented. Being invited back to my secondary school to speak has helped me to become a passionate advocate of apprenticeships and so through my role on the panel I hope to share my thoughts and ideas and improve and shape the future of apprenticeships.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I am currently undertaking a level 3 Civil Engineering apprenticeship within the geotechnics team at Arup. My role enables me to have had the opportunity to work on a range of range of highways projects where my role is the data management of information collected on site by contractors for us then to be able to produce drawings showing the geology of the soil and manipulate the data to extract the relevant information to help inform the parameters of foundation design.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I am the goalkeeper for the Under 19 Great British Handball Squad and have had the opportunity to travel to: Spain, Portugal, and Denmark.
Ishaaq Saleem
Employer: Arup Group
Apprenticeship: Environmental Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship – Level 6
Training provider: Kingston University
Assigned route: Agriculture, environmental and animal care
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I wanted to join the panel as a means of not just promoting apprenticeships but to improve the experience of doing an apprenticeship for current and future apprentices. As someone who has had the opportunity to work for different employers, I feel I have a unique perspective on doing an apprenticeship and by being on the panel, can share my views and opinions.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I’m currently doing the Environmental Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship. The course allows me to train as an Environmental Consultant in a specialist field within environmental consulting and gives me the opportunity to study BSc Environmental Science (one day a week) at university.
What is an interesting fact about you?
A short fact but I’ve memorised a book.
William Pollyn
Employer: IBM
Apprenticeship: Level 4 Software Test Engineer
Training provider: GKA
Assigned route: Digital
Why did I want to be a part of the panel?
I wanted to become a panel member due to my enthusiasm and passion for apprenticeships. My apprenticeship has far surpassed my expectations due to the endless opportunities I’ve been given to expand my skills in different areas. I aim to express the many benefits of an apprenticeship scheme in collaboration with other apprentices, as I believe voicing the opportunities involved within the pathway is essential to showcase the beneficial impact that it can have to help progress and develop your future career.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I’m a Level 4 Software Test Engineer Apprentice at IBM and have experienced Functional, Automation and Performance testing. I’ve developed both my technical and personal skill sets, and have also experienced different activities during my apprenticeship, such as attending a school careers fare to promote apprenticeship schemes, an awards evening where I was selected as a finalist, and I lead a team to win an internal IBM event. I’ve also surpassed the required software examination certifications for my role.
What is an interesting fact about you?
During school, I did not take any IT or computer related GCSEs (other than a short course which I didn’t enjoy at the time)! My A-Levels were not related to software or IT in any way, and I did not initially think that I would choose to work for a large computer / technology company as a Software Test Engineer, using different IT related software on a daily basis.
Daphne Muskett
Employer: HIT Training LTD
Apprenticeship: Learning and Skill Teacher - Level 5
Training provider: HIT Training LTD
Assigned route: Education and early years
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
As an Apprentice Panel member, I work with other panel members to support apprentices in getting their voices heard. We work to widen the impact of apprenticeships to wider communities and aim to drive the quality of apprenticeship services and prompt better experiences for current and future apprentices.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I have completed my Learning Skills Teacher, Level 5, Apprenticeship, upskilling myself to increase my career value to a Qualified Learning and Skills Teacher status. I thoroughly enjoyed my apprenticeship journey and have immensely gained in confidence, knowledge, and skills.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I have over a decade’s experience working in Further Education and Training and the reason I wanted to complete my own apprenticeship, was because I witnessed the positive impact work-based learning was having on my apprentices’ knowledge, improving their skills, and enhancing their behaviours.
Lily O'Brien
Employer: Crosby Management Training Ltd
Apprenticeship: Digital Marketing Degree Apprenticeship BSc Hons – Level 6
Training provider: Aston University
Assigned route: Sales, Marketing and Procurement
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I wanted to be a part of the apprentice panel to encourage success through apprenticeships and highlight this fantastic learning scheme to more and more people.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I’ve completed two apprenticeships, firstly in business administration, followed by a more specialist apprenticeship in marketing.
What is an interesting fact about you?
Leaving school, I had no idea what I wanted to do - apprenticeships helped direct and develop me into a marketing career, which I cannot wait to accelerate further!
Harvey Church
Employer: BBC
Apprenticeship: Broadcast and media systems engineer level 6
Training provider: Birmingham City University
Assigned route: Creative and design
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
Two parts: The want to raise the voice of apprentices within the Creative and Design route and personally understand the skills landscape a lot better. There are more than degree apprenticeships out there! They need speaking about too!
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I’m a Level 6 Broadcast Engineering Apprentice. It’s not.. one field. The best way to describe it is getting tv and radio content to you. We look at IP Technologies, Programming, Electronics and how it can all support content distribution.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I managed to get onto the roof of St Paul’s Cathedral (legally might I add!) There are great views of it from the river… but its better the other way round!
Nathan Huchinson
Employer: PRP
Apprenticeship: Civil Engineering, Level 6
Training provider: Coventry University
Assigned route: Construction and built environment
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I wanted to be part of the panel to help promote the apprenticeship route, which has worked so well for me. My company is continually looking to train new apprentices with a consistent approach. As a more senior apprentice, I wanted to share my passion for the scheme, ensuring that new apprentices are given the best possible experience - being part of the panel, shaping the standards and having access to the insight of many other apprentices, allows me to do this.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I work for a consultancy in Northamptonshire, currently training on a civil engineering apprenticeship. ‘Civil engineering’ is a broad term used for construction engineering but at my company, like many, the term ‘civil’ engineering refers to my role of designing drainage, roads, and external areas.
What is an interesting fact about you?
Originally, I wanted to be a police officer. I worked as a special constable in tandem with the early stages of my civil engineering apprenticeship before deciding engineering was the preferred career path for me.
Olivia Hatwood
Employer: Airbus Commercial
Apprenticeship: EAL Level 4 Diploma in Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing
Training provider: Weston College
Assigned route: Engineering and Manufacturing
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
Joining this panel is an opportunity to share my insights as a Level 4 Quality Engineering Apprentice. I have thoroughly enjoyed my scheme at Airbus so far, making me passionate about the Apprenticeship programme as a whole. I appreciate that the panel is an influential platform to enable an even more enriching experience to future apprentices.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
The duration of my Apprenticeship is four years. The first two years are a combination of four month placements in different teams/departments within the business, whilst working towards obtaining my Level four qualification at college. The last two years are work-based learning with opportunities to travel to different sites in Europe and get first hand experience with the product.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I have a pet Axolotl
James Stephenson
Employer: BT Group Plc
Apprenticeship: Digital Technologies Solutions Professional (Level 6) (Integrated Degree) (Network Specialism)
Training provider: Staffordshire University
Assigned route: Digital
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
Joining this panel to me is all about opening opportunities to more people, I wouldn’t have found my apprenticeship, if it wasn’t for meeting a fellow apprentice, and understanding more about the path that they took. Since then, I’ve been working to help people understand a much wider range of roles available to them rather than just the traditional path. Supporting people find their perfect route for education, is everything that I want to do, to help people get to where they want to be in life and this Panel will really help me amplify voices not just of Apprentices that I work with, but applicants, and people who want to do more of them across the country.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I’m working on the Digital Technologies Solutions Professional Apprenticeship, with a specialism in Network Engineering. This gives me such a wide range of access to technologies across the world, that our computer systems and data centres use globally to communicate. Alongside this, my university degree is supporting me with my critical, technical and writing skills that I need to develop internal project proposals to take lead on projects on things that can turn in a range of things from internal tools, to workflows affecting people across the business.
What is an interesting fact about you?
Before joining BT, I worked for a very long time on the Roblox Platform, spending most of my interest recently in working as an educator, teaching people what I’d learnt on the platform over a long time. Alongside that I was working as a gameplay engineer for both brands, and personal projects that had to push the limits of what I thought were possible.
Josh Peck
Employer: Reckitt
Apprenticeship: Laboratory scientist (degree) (level 6)
Training provider: University of Kent
Assigned route: Health and science
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I have been on the apprentice scheme for 3 years now. I want to share my love and passion
for apprenticeships, with the aim of both promoting them to as wide of an audience as
possible, whilst also improving them for current apprentices on the scheme.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I have spent my 3 years so far moving around various teams within the business. I have had
the amazing opportunity to travel to both France and the USA with my work and work with
teams and people from all across the globe on a daily basis.
What is an interesting fact about you?
In 2023 my new years resolution was to travel to a new country every month. So far
from January to August I have managed to go to 14!
Lola Sharp
Employer: Sexy Fish
Apprenticeship: Commis chef (level 2)
Training provider: Westminster Kingsway College
Assigned route: Catering and hospitality
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I am a dedicated apprentice chef who has been through many ups and downs in the past year. I feel I have a lot to contribute to the apprenticeship panel. I wish to make my voice heard in order to help other apprentices overcome any challenges they might face and help them make their dream jobs a reality.
I feel like joining the apprenticeship panel would give me confidence and be a great way to develop my leadership skills and presentation skills.
Travelling and networking appeals to me as I have always loved meeting new people and putting my ideas forward.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I am currently studying a Level 2 Commis Chef apprenticeship at the Sexy Fish in Mayfair in affiliation with Westminster Kingsway College. I am loving the opportunities it has given me and looking forward to going onto the Level 3 next year.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I have coeliac disease so need to follow a strict gluten free diet. It’s my dream one day to open my own gluten free bakery.
Katie Brown
Employer: Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA)
Apprenticeship: Events Assistant (level 3)
Training provider: Realise
Assigned route: Sales, marketing and procurement
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I volunteered to be part of the panel to give something back to the apprenticeship route and the many options it has opened up for me. I was able to change careers by doing my apprenticeship and I hope that the work we do on the panel will lead to more people shaping their careers this way. After 10+ years of working pre-apprenticeship, I hope to bring a wider perspective to the panel too.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I am an Events Assistant Level 3 Apprentice and I work in an in-house events role within a small corporate events team. This means that day to day I am involved in planning and delivering a range of events from small meetings, webinars and dinners, to big conferences. No two days or events are the same and I love the anticipation and excitement that comes with delivering a live event. I have learnt a huge amount from my colleagues and enjoy using some of my study time to read articles and keep up with new trends in the industry.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I was asked to speak on the Events Apprenticeship panel discussion at the Event Production Show (a big event for Events professionals) last year which was great!
Hannah Wright
Employer: Digital Innovators
Apprenticeship: Project Manager BSc (level 6)
Training provider: Aston University
Assigned route: Business and administration
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I was eager to join the panel because I have always had a passion for helping young people and promoting opportunities of alternative pathways to employment for students as they prepare to enter the world of work. I believe apprenticeships are an ideal transition from full-time education into work, and a great way to enhance professional experience alongside learning. I am a strong advocate for the experience and support apprenticeships provide, and would like them to become even more well-known as routes into employment.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I am currently undertaking a level 6 degree apprenticeship in Project Management. This allows me to continuously develop my technical knowledge and skills, alongside my day-to-day role developing my practical and professional experience. I love the fact that I can immediately apply what I learn through my studies to my role at work.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I danced for about 13 years, from the age of 4, mainly focusing on Ballet and Contemporary.
Hannah Linden
Employer: JLR
Apprenticeship: Advanced apprentice (level 3)
Training provider: Make UK
Assigned route: Engineering and manufacturing
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I wanted to join the panel because of my passion for apprenticeships and my desire to help improve people’s experiences when on an apprenticeship.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I am currently on the Level 3 advanced apprenticeship at JLR in my second year, just about to start my third. I am in the metrology department, training to be a qualified metrology engineer. Every day I work with amazing technology measuring parts and investigating the data for the engineers.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I used to be a synchronised swimmer competing at national level, gaining over 53 medals.
Gurinderpal Jhutti
Employer: West London NHS Trust
Apprenticeship: Occupational Therapy BSc (level 6)
Training provider: Coventry University
Assigned route: Health and science
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I wanted to become part of the apprentice panel to create positive change for future apprentices and ensure sustainable educational prospects. The apprenticeship pathway allowed me to change my career from the engineering sector into healthcare, a scary but exciting adventure. I look forward to contributing my knowledge and insight to projects and discussions focused on improving the apprentice experience.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
Currently, I am about to enter the 4th and final year of my Occupational Therapy apprenticeship, based at Coventry University. I began my pathway during Covid and a lot has changed over the years as we transitioned back to face-to-face teaching.
What is an interesting fact about you?
An interesting fact about me is that I have a trained therapy animal named Storm, who supports my practice both in trust and externally for charity, in a wide array of clinical and non-clinical settings.
Esme Freitas
Employer: Derry Building Services
Apprenticeship: Chartered Surveyor (Quantity Surveyor Pathway) (level 6)
Training provider: Nottingham Trent University
Assigned route: Construction and the built environment
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I wanted to be a part of the panel as I have had a very positive experience so far as an apprentice, and would like to share my experiences and feedback in order to help improve other apprenticeships.
Apprenticeships are becoming more popular, and its so important that young people leaving school are aware of the opportunities available. Improving/ encouraging recruitment of apprentices is something I look forward to having involvement within. To work alongside like minded people with the aim to improve current and future apprenticeships will be an exciting challenge.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I started my apprenticeship in 2020, studying Quantity Surveying. Working in the construction industry, my job is never boring, my weeks are often split between time in the office, visits to site & university. I get to work with different people on a range of projects, expanding my knowledge and understanding.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I love skiing, and have been skiing since the age of 3 years old. I was awarded Nottingham Trent Universities ‘First year apprentice of the year’ award in 2022.
Conal McMahon
Employer: Laing O'Rourke
Apprenticeship: Building energy management systems - control engineer (level 4)
Training provider: Group Horizon
Assigned route: Construction and the built environment
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I want help people to have someone like them to support them in their apprentice journey. I also want help grow and develop apprentice pathways, bridging industry gaps for the best possible experience to be the foundations of a strong career.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
BEMS or Building Energy Management Systems is all about making people comfortable within a space by using computer-based systems that control and monitor a building's mechanical and electrical equipment such as heating, ventilation, lighting, and power systems.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I have been involved in sports my entire life competing in various athletic disciplines and I used to compete in Pole vault.
Branwen Cleaver
Employer: Flex Legal Limited
Apprenticeship: Solicitor (level 7)
Training provider: Damar
Assigned route: Legal, finance and accounting
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I want to provide feedback based on my experiences of the apprenticeship, as well as those of my wider cohort. I hope to raise young people and employers’ awareness of the value of apprenticeships for teams and for personal development, especially as a bridge for those who are otherwise unable to, or would find difficulty in, accessing training by other means, such as University.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I undertake my apprenticeship at Cambridge University Press & Assessment, supporting on company secretarial, commercial, and corporate legal work. I work with stakeholders within the business, instruct external counsel, and help with entity set-ups globally.
What is an interesting fact about you?
When I was ten, I saw an advert in my comic shop to design a superhero costume. I entered on the last day and found out that it was actually for a TV show called ‘Who Wants to be a Superhero’ with Stan Lee of Marvel comics! I spent time filming in London, which was the first time I ever left my home of South Wales. I undertook challenges such as running through London to catch villains, climbing tall buildings, and living in a lair!
Bethany Dodgson
Employer: Hilton Newcastle Gateshead
Apprenticeship: Hospitality manager (level 4)
Training provider: Lifetime training
Assigned route: Catering and hospitality
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I want to be part of the panel to ensure the same opportunities and support is giving to all apprentices.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
After completing my level 3 in hospitality supervisor am looking forward to continuing my apprenticeship journey by completing my level 4 Hospitality Manager.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I am passionate about raising awareness of invisible conditions & Unpaid Carers, My biggest awareness campaign included being in 2 medical journals.
Alex O'Shea
Employer: Sir Robert McAlpine Ltd
Apprenticeship: BSc (Hons) Commercial Management (Quantity Surveying) (Construction Quantity Surveying Apprenticeship) (PT) (level 6)
Training provider: London South Bank University
Assigned route: Construction and the built environment
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
Fundamentally, I believe that what is not measured cannot be improved and it is evident that measuring and improving education is what the IfATE stands for – being part of the apprentice panel facilitates contribution to positive policy.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
Having completed a Construction Quantity Surveying Technician (HNC) qualification, I am currently in my second year of studying a degree in Construction Commercial Management (BSc) whilst working as an Assistant Construction Finance Estimator across numerous sectors ranging from £18 million - £500 million.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I was featured in an article in the Construction Enquirer Magazine!
Antonia Clark-Adamson
Employer: HM Revenue and Customs
Apprenticeship: Digital user experience (level 6)
Training provider: QA and Northumbria University
Assigned route: Digital
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
Being a part of the panel is important to me because I wouldn’t have the experience, knowledge and friendships without my first apprenticeship when I was 18. I want the opportunity to further improve and help reach a diverse range of potential apprentices. I’m looking forward to networking and learning from everyone during my time on the panel too.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
My apprenticeship is in digital user experience and looks at the various methodologies used to understand users needs and identify pain points of a service or a product. Hopefully, bringing this skill to the panel will help to improve project delivery and see the apprentices through a different lens.
What is an interesting fact about you?
An interesting fact about me … Maybe that I love a DIY project - the bigger the better!! I renovated a house during lockdown and am desperate to do it again!
Nawal Bin-Sheikh
Employer: Simmons and Simmons
Apprenticeship: Solicitor (level 7)
Training provider: BPP
Assigned route: Legal, finance and accounting
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I am dedicated to educating people about the different higher education routes available and helping increase access to further education. I want to support prospective applicants and empower them to make informed decisions about their future. I am an ambassador for the London Apprentice Ambassador Network and joining the panel because it will give me a bigger platform to advocate for apprenticeships and educate more students about the opportunities available to them.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I am completing a solicitor apprenticeship and at the end of my apprenticeship I will be a qualified solicitor. I have the opportunity to sit in different seats (departments) across my Firm to gain experience and knowledge. Right now, I am currently sitting in the Office of the General Counsel.
What is an interesting fact about you?
Fun fact: I can speak three different languages!
Olivia Hullah
Employer: Trust Heating
Apprenticeship: Digital Marketing (Integrated Degree)
Training provider: The Development Manager
Assigned route: Sales, marketing and procurement
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I wanted to join the apprenticeship panel because I have personally experienced the transformative power of apprenticeships. In 2020 I planned to go to university, however COVID had other plans and I had to take a gap year and someone suggested doing a Digital Marketing Degree Apprenticeship. Fast forward 3 years later, I am leading a marketing team towards becoming the UK's leading electric heating manufacturer - all down to my apprenticeship, which has undoubtedly changed the course of my life.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
My Digital Marketing Degree apprenticeship/job covers all things marketing, from ensuring an online presence across socials, website and email, to targeting domestic and commercial customers via personal and unique marketing strategies.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I’m currently training to run my first ever London Marathon!
Sharmin Begum
Employer: Norton Rose Fullbright LLP
Apprenticeship: Solicitor (level 7)
Training provider: BPP University
Assigned route: Legal, finance and accounting
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I wanted to contribute towards the improvement of apprenticeships, especially by utilizing my position as founder and President of the Muslim Apprentice Network.
I know first-hand the issues faced by Muslim apprentices and wanted to make sure that every apprentice can benefit from the apprenticeship opportunity.
I am passionate about the apprenticeship route and want to combat the surrounding stigma.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I am a second year Solicitor Apprentice at an international law firm.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I am the Founder and President of the Muslim Apprentice Community, empowering apprentices to champion their faith at work and creating a community for Muslim apprentices!
Sophie Smith
Employer: Devon County Council
Apprenticeship: Business administration (level 3)
Training provider: Exeter College
Assigned route: Business and administration
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I joined the panel because I wanted to promote apprenticeships while also helping to drive their improvement. Having been unable to take the traditional route, I appreciate what a lifeline being able to undertake an apprenticeship is. I also wanted to improve my own teamworking and communication skills while being able to make an impact.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I am currently doing a level 3 apprenticeship in business administration. This apprenticeship has allowed me to work within 2 different finance teams and I am about to move to my 3rd. I really enjoy my role as being able to rotate placements has allowed me to meet lots of new people improve my adaptability.
What is an interesting fact about you?
When I was a few hours old my parents registered me for a library card. This made me the youngest library member in my county – it was even in the local newspaper.
Theo Vasiloiu
Employer: AstraZeneca
Apprenticeship: Supply Chain Leadership (level 6)
Training provider: Aston University
Assigned route: Transport and logistics
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
There’s no denying that apprenticeships are gaining traction, fast. Yet, a substantial amount of misinformation persists concerning alternative educational pathways and their potential to pave the way for successful careers. I want to foster equitable access to opportunities among diverse communities and authentically voice the opinions of apprentices to those in positions of influence, and with the ability to drive meaningful change.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
The Supply Chain Leadership Professional apprenticeship studies the complex journeys products take from their initial manufacture to reaching the hands of consumers. My day-to-day focus lies with formulating effective drug supply strategies needed to deliver clinical products to AstraZeneca’s clinical trial locations globally.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I didn’t get into my university of choice on Results Day in 2020. I went on TV with Channel 5 and RT, expressing my frustration. Got in about a week later. I’d love to say it was because of my showbiz potential, but it was probably because the Centre Assessed Grades were reversed, and the Teacher Assessed Grades were now being used 😊
Benjamin Barraud
Employer: GKN Aerospace
Apprenticeship: BEng (Hons) Mechanical engineering (level 6)
Training provider: University of Hertfordshire
Assigned route: Engineering and manufacturing
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
To help improve apprenticeships for future apprentices and do my best to eliminate problems that my fellow apprentices or I have seen. I would like to be able to hear problems from apprentices and act on them, hopefully bringing about change. I have been to schools and career fairs to speak to students about my apprenticeship, and this is the next step for me to give back to apprenticeships.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I am a Manufacturing Engineer Apprentice, studying Mechanical Engineering at Hertfordshire University. I have just complete my first year of university and have three more years to fulfil. I have been sent to parliament to represent my company and talk to politicians from the Shadow Cabinet about my apprenticeship.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I captained my rugby team in our last tag rugby county tournament and our first contact rugby county tournament winning both competitions.
Laura May
Employer: Blackpool and the Fylde College
Apprenticeship: Chartered Management (level 6)
Training provider: Blackpool and the Fylde College
Assigned route: Business and administration
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I believe apprenticeships are a fantastic way to achieve new skills and qualifications for everyone at every stage of their career, but the many myths surrounding apprenticeships are putting people off. I hope that being part of this panel allows us to raise the true profile of apprenticeships across all industries that will encourage more people to consider them as a cost-effective way to gain the new skills they want.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I have recently completed my first year of the Chartered Management degree apprenticeship and I’ve loved almost every moment! It’s been a long time since I completed any academic learning, and so I was a little apprehensive about whether I would be able to cope with the level of work a degree would require. I soon found that I had nothing to worry about. I am already using the new knowledge and skills I’ve learnt in the first year in my job and I’m really looking forward to getting stuck into year 2.
What is an interesting fact about you?
Whilst now living in Lancashire, I grew up in Wales and once had the amazing opportunity to sing with Welsh National Opera.
Lisa Taylor-Clarke
Employer: Arden University Coventry
Apprenticeship: Departmental manager (level 5)
Training provider: BMS Progress
Assigned route: Education and early years
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
As an educator and life long learner I wanted to be involved in shaping the future of apprenticeships.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
My apprenticeship is supporting my professional and personal growth as a leader.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I am plant and shoe collector.
Ioana Triboi
Employer: York and Scarborough teaching hospitals NHS
Apprenticeship: Nursing associate (level 5)
Training provider: University of York
Assigned route: Health and science
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I possess a strong desire for continuous learning and personal development, actively seeking out novel opportunities to improve my skill set. I have a genuine passion for my field of interest, and I approach problem-solving with a proactive mindset. Moreover, as a mature student, I firmly assert that apprenticeships possess the capacity to facilitate significant transformations. I believe that advocating for apprentices is a vital and impactful role that involves promoting the rights, development, and recognition of individuals engaged in apprenticeships.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
Level 5 Nursing associate degree Apprenticeship is a comprehensive 2-year program offered in collaboration with universities across England. This initiative is designed to provide a structured and enriching learning experience for individuals employed as Health Care Assistants (HCAs) or Support Workers (SWs) who aspire to advance their careers within the healthcare sector. This apprenticeship programme combines academic training and practical experience to develop skilled and compassionate Nursing Associates. A nursing associate is an essential member of the nursing team in England who plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between healthcare assistants and registered nurses.
What is an interesting fact about you?
At the age of 17, I achieved the feat of ascending Romania's highest peak, which reaches an impressive altitude of 2544 metres. It is worth mentioning that I had no prior experience or proper equipment for such an adventure. Additionally, during our descent back to the camp, we had a frightening encounter with a brown bear that almost chased us.
Rebecca Jones
Employer: WSP
Apprenticeship: Environmental Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship (Level 6)
Training provider: Coventry University
Assigned route: Agriculture, environment and animal care
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I wanted to be a part of the apprentice panel to voice my opinion on the apprenticeship programme and help make positive improvements for the apprentices of the future! I am also interested to hear about the experiences of other apprentices to see how they may differ from my own.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I am currently completing the Environmental Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship (Level 6). At my company, we get to move between various earth and environment teams in order to find the role we would like to settle into. I think this is great as it allows you to try a mixture of different things!
What is an interesting fact about you?
When I was 14 I went on an Exchange trip to China with a small group of students from smy school! We got to live with a Chinese family for a week, attending school with the children. We also visited cities such as Shanghai to learn about Chinese culture!
Lauren Biggs
Employer: Quiffys
Apprenticeship: Hairdressing (Level 2)
Training provider: Eastleigh College
Assigned route: Hair, Beauty and Aesthetics
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
To explain the good things about having a hairdressing apprenticeship and what I have learnt whilst doing it.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
I think I am learning more doing an apprenticeship then I would doing full time college because you get more salon experience.
Alex Pearson
Employer: Parkdean Resorts
Apprenticeship: Level 5 Operations Management
Training provider: Parkdean
Assigned route: Catering and Hospitality
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I really believe in people improving their capability through education and I want that to become more common in hospitality.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
My apprenticeship focuses on efficient and effective business operations and the management tools which help achieve that.
What is an interesting fact about you?
My dog is an influencer on social media.
Joe Jenner
Employer:Chichester Festival Theatre
Apprenticeship: Level 7 Creative Industries Production Manager
Training provider: Chichester College
Assigned route: Creative and design
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I am passionate about the opportunities apprenticeships give and I want to ensure that our voices are at the heart of each course. I want to celebrate success in the creative industries and across all apprenticeships and make sure everyone knows about the opportunities that are available.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
Working as an Apprentice Production Manager at Chichester Festival Theatre is incredible. No two days are the same. It is challenging but ultimately it is the greatest experience I’ve ever had. Assisting industry leading Production Managers and learning on NO1 tours is incredible and I would not get these experiences if I wasn’t on this apprenticeship.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I sing tenor.
Daniel Philips
Employer: Department for Work and Pensions
Apprenticeship: Apprenticeship – Level 4
Training provider: Intellegencia Training
Assigned route: Protective services
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
Being a part of this Panel will give me a chance to represent my department, and provide any feedback from my colleagues currently undergoing the same apprenticeship. I am also hoping to gain valuable experience from this through engaging a different forums and networking face to face, hopefully bring something to the table at the same time.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
My apprenticeship was very much tailored to my role. It was a 2-year course, that had a mixture of online and F2F elements. We covered a number of modules including legislation, interviewing and court practical to name but a few. It was an intensive but very rewarding course.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I am a season ticket holder for Cardiff City Football Club. (Some say interesting, some say not).
Adam Glinister
Employer: Merseyside Police
Apprenticeship: Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship/ Level 6
Training provider: Liverpool John Moores University
Assigned route: Protective services
Why did you want to be part of the panel?
I wanted to be part of the apprenticeship panel due to having recently completed the PCDA policing programme, the programme is designed to introduce an evidence and academic based approach to policing. I wanted to make a difference to the journey that new apprentices will travel on and ensure that their introduction into the world of policing is exciting, fulfilling and innovative with a real focus on building trust and solid relationships within the communities that we police.
Tell me a bit about your apprenticeship?
My apprenticeship is a 3-year intensive programme supported by the College of Policing and Liverpool John Moores University. The course involves academic studies encompassed with working as a full-time police officer for Merseyside Police.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I am a father of 2 young children, however, 10 years ago I obtained a scuba diving licence, and in more recent years even with familial commitments have managed to dive some of the best waters in and around the Mediterranean seas.
Last updated 5 February 2024
(CF, NS)