Apprentice Success Stories
Over the last 10 years, QA have launched or transformed the careers of over 60,000 learners through our digital and tech apprenticeships.
Hear from some of our apprentices about their experiences and how their apprenticeship impacted their careers.
Paige's Story - Digital Marketing Apprentice
From running her own candle business on Etsy to creating campaigns and analysing data at MKM Building Supplies, Paige’s Level 3 Digital Marketing Apprenticeship has unlocked a career she’s passionate about.
Combining creative skills with a newfound love for analytics, she’s proven that hands-on learning can open doors, and even help save for a car and a house!
Oli's Story - Data Analytics Apprentice
From working part-time at McDonald’s to building databases and presenting key insights at United Utilities, Oli’s Level 4 Data Analytics Apprenticeship has transformed his career path.
Beyond gaining hands-on experience and technical skills, the apprenticeship has boosted his confidence, given him clarity about his future, and even inspired his family.
Keren's Story - Digital & Technology Solutions Apprentice
Struggling to find a learning style that works for you? Keren chose a Digital Technology Solutions degree apprenticeship because her hands-on approach didn’t align with the traditional university route.
Working as a Business Analyst at NatWest, she’s able to apply her learning directly to her role, gaining real-world experience and financial freedom while continuously growing her skills.
Kerr's Story - Software Development Apprentice
Kerr’s journey through his Level 8 Software Development Apprenticeship has not only given him valuable work experience but has also boosted his confidence.
From initially being shy and unsure, Kerr now helps train new starters at NatWest and takes on key responsibilities in his team.
Amy's Story- Digital Marketing Apprentice
Taking the skills she gained during her apprenticeship, Amy now runs a successful digital marketing agency! Her journey started with a love for social media and grew into mastering SEO, analytics, and more.
Listen to Amy’s story to discover how a Digital Marketing Apprenticeship can lay the foundation for future success and a thriving career.
Learner stories
"Through my apprenticeship I have learned an abundance of IT skills which have assisted not only with my role within the company, but also helped to massively boost my confidence. I have always loved to learn and progress and a career in technology allows constant improvement and learning as new software and technology are released. The technology sector is responsible for innovative ideas and progression which initially attracted me towards my current role."
"I’ve been recognised for my expertise in IT. After being a runner-up for the Microsoft Apprentice of the Year awards and promoted to Head of IT for eCourier I took a risk and started a personal training squad called WeGym, which is now a profitable organisation in its third year."
"An apprenticeship is an amazing way to start a career, gain experience and get a qualification, as well as get paid! It's opened up so many new opportunities for me that now I'm a Data Analyst."
"I started on the IT Service Desk and progressed to IT Governance, which has provided me with two very unique views and experiences at Financial Times."
"I'm going to have a degree by 19, with no debt, and 3 years' work experience through my digital apprenticeship. I love that I'm always learning and building a network of people around me."
"I was 17 and had just finished high school during Covid, this has helped me find something to be proud of and keep me motivated despite life slowing down. I have met many new friends that I can lean on for support and often learn from their experiences."
"I’ve enjoyed learning new things and being able to put it into practice in my workplace. I also enjoy how supportive the staff have been – I know that if I have a problem with anything we can work together to find a solution."
“The digital marketing apprenticeship has impacted my life massively. Not only have I gained a marketing qualification, I've gained enough knowledge and experience to set up my own social media marketing business at just 20 years old!”
“If you were to tell me before I started the apprenticeship that I’d be doing the sort of things I do now, I would probably be laughingI! It's helped get that job experience I never had before as well as boost my confidence.”
“The biggest advantage I’ve found with an apprenticeship is just getting straight into work, not worrying about university or going to lectures – just going straight in, getting that experience, and getting me where I want to go faster. My colleagues were so accommodating, they didn’t see me as a nuisance, and they all helped me get along with my apprenticeship for all the different areas I needed.”
Learn more about our apprenticeships
How do apprenticeships work?
An apprenticeship is a paid job, which includes both on-the-job experience and study based learning. They offer the opportunity to gain industry experience and learn the essential skills needed for the world of work. All whilst working towards a recognised qualification.
Learn more about how apprenticeships work, how much they get paid and more with our all you need to know guide to apprenticeships.
How long do apprenticeships last?
Apprenticeships must last at least one year, but can last up to five, depending on the level of apprenticeship you choose. Most apprenticeships offered by QA last between one and two years.
Is there a guaranteed job at the end of an apprenticeship?
An employer does not have to offer you permanent employment once the apprenticeship ends. However over 90% of apprentices at QA end up with a permanent role, and of course, a nationally recognised qualification.
When do apprenticeships start?
QA apprenticeships start throughout the year. Check out our live vacancies at any time.
What are the different levels of apprenticeship?
In England, apprenticeships range from Level 2 to Level 7 and broadly cover equivalent qualifications from GSCE level to Master’s level degrees.
Apprenticeship levels progress upwards, with Level 2 being entry-level programmes and Level 7 being for university level study and work-based upskilling.
More apprenticeship reads
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Browse all apprenticeship programmes
An apprenticeship offers the chance to earn as you learn, acquiring the skills and technologies that employers are seeking today.
AI apprenticeships
Our tailored AI apprenticeship programmes enable you to upskill existing teams or bring in future-ready talent to drive innovation and make an impact.
Cyber security apprenticeships
Our Cyber Security apprenticeship programmes are arming organisations with critical technical security know how, and enduring soft skills to become the defenders of the future.
Digital marketing apprenticeships
Our digital marketing apprenticeships will equip teams with the skills to optimise campaigns across social, email, and web, strengthening brand presence and making actionable insights to deliver measurable results.
Data apprenticeships
Get the skills to handle complex data, uncover trends, and deliver intelligence that strengthens strategy, efficiency, and security across your organisation.
IT apprenticeships
Our IT apprenticeships upgrade your team's skills in infrastructure, security, and support, ensuring systems run smoothly and securely – helping your people to use technology well.