Beth: Why an Apprenticeship Was the Right Choice for Me
With an apprenticeship, you are constantly learning new things and you need to put these new skills into practice.
Networking can open doors in unexpected ways — just ask Beth.
Twice a year, Bath Spa University hosts a celebration event for Click Start graduates, bringing together learners, employers, and industry leaders. For Beth, this was more than just a milestone — it was a chance to make connections that could shape her future.
A conversation with an apprenticeship provider led to a discussion about digital marketing and content creation, subjects Beth was passionate about. Encouraged to send over her CV, she was later put forward for a Level 3 Content Creation Apprenticeship. With support from Catch22, she aced the interview and made the leap from freelance work and exam invigilating to a structured, full-time role in digital content creation.
Before securing her apprenticeship…
Beth took the traditional university route but quickly realised it wasn’t the right fit. Unsure of her next steps, she gained some hands-on experience doing basic website work for a local company. Without formal qualifications, breaking into the digital sector felt like an uphill battle.
Determined to stand out to employers, she enrolled in Click Start in Creative Digital Skills at Bath Spa University. There, she built essential expertise in digital marketing and UX/UI — giving her the confidence and knowledge she needed to take the next step. Beth credits her success in landing the role to a powerful mix of communication skills, drive, and a willingness to keep learning.
“With an apprenticeship, you are constantly learning new things and you need to put these new skills into practice. You need to have a willingness to learn and progress and accept that you will make mistakes along the journey.”
A typical day involves managing content requests from different departments, ensuring web pages align with style guidelines, and responding to user feedback, with problem-solving being the most enjoyable part of the role. Through her apprenticeship, she’s also discovered new passions, like accessibility and digital design, which she’s been able to explore further through hands-on coursework.
Each day brings new opportunities to learn, grow, and refine her skills in the digital space.
“This apprenticeship is also allowing me to grow and explore my specific passions, which I love. I have discovered I really enjoy learning about accessibility, and through my coursework, I have been able to build up my design skills.”
Despite challenges…
like handling user feedback, Beth has found immense value in the apprenticeship model. For her, it’s more than just a job — it’s a chance to gain real-world experience while continuously learning and growing. She sees apprenticeships as a fantastic alternative to university, especially for those who thrive in a hands-on environment. Her advice to anyone considering this path? Go for it!
“I may be biased but go for it! Seriously, it’s a great opportunity to build up your soft and hard skills, earn a qualification, and a wage. Remember it is a competitive field! I certainly needed to hear that! But also, don’t give up, and make sure you communicate your passion for whatever field you want to go into to your employer!“
Beth’s story highlights how apprenticeships, combined with the right training and networking opportunities, can open doors to fulfilling careers. Their journey from freelance work to a structured role in content creation showcases the real-world impact of programmes like Click Start in helping individuals break into the digital industry. With the right support, skills, and determination, exciting new career paths become possible.