Apprentice success stories

Interested in apprenticeships at Solihull Council? On this page, you can read a few of our many apprentice success stories

Discover what our apprentices think about working for us, learning new skills and being supported to take on new qualifications, challenges and opportunities.

Get in touch

To find out more about apprenticeships, please get in touch by:

• email at emp-services@solihull.gov.uk
• calling 0121 704 6420

Anisha

Initially going to university seemed the best route to reach my desired profession, however after researching an accounting apprenticeship the benefits far outweighed those of going to university. The biggest advantage is gaining valuable practical experience and simultaneously gaining an AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) qualification.

I initially undertook a week’s work experience with the Finance team at Solihull Council, whilst I was still at sixth form and enjoyed the experience.

I then started looking at apprenticeships and after successfully applying for an apprenticeship, I joined the Council as an AAT Apprentice. Coming straight from sixth form into a work environment seemed quite daunting, however the team made me feel extremely welcome. I’ve had the opportunity to work within several different teams and apply the academic content learnt at college to a variety of tasks. I’ve now started a new role as an Accounting Technician and throughout the whole experience, my knowledge and understanding of accountancy has vastly developed. I started my initial apprenticeship at level 2 and have subsequently taken and passed level 2, level 3 and level 4 in accounting.

I have just started my level 7 to become a fully qualified accountant, and this has all been undertaken whilst working and earning.

I have really enjoyed my time at Solihull Council and hope I get the opportunity to gain further qualifications!

Hannah Stanton

I am currently completing my apprenticeship in Level 3 Business Administration. When looking for an apprenticeship, Solihull Council stood out to me because of the opportunities to grow within and their values. Throughout my course, I have been overwhelmed with the support from my managers and team members.

When I've needed help thinking of ideas for my project and during my preparation for exams, my colleagues have been nothing but positive and encouraging. My managers have been incredible by always making sure I have dedicated time for my college work, while granting extra time for my assignments or revision. The Council is helping me to grow professionally and build my personal confidence throughout.

Choosing an apprenticeship was definitely the right decision for me, as I am gaining new skills everyday while working towards a qualification (while getting paid). The support from Solihull Council and colleagues is like no other, which is allowing me to enjoy work every day and progress in my course.

Harvey Child

During my studies at university, I found a keen interest in procurement and buying within some of my final year modules. As I had little experience of procurement, an apprenticeship has allowed me to develop my understanding and skills without the initial expectation to be proficient within the role.

The benefit to an apprenticeship is being able to apply my learning with the training provider in my day-to-day role. This makes learning and studying easier, as I can relate it to tenders I have conducted, as well as developing my understanding of procurement.

My team have been incredibly supportive, taking the time to assist with my internal training and offering their expertise wherever they can. I've been granted the space and capacity planning to complete my apprenticeship tasks, which has enabled me to effectively balance my role and the apprenticeship.

Finally, the training provider shave been incredibly thorough in ensuring that I am successful. From high quality teaching sessions, to personal mentor sessions and extra support where required.

Jordan

I have been with the Council since October 2021, when I started working towards a level 3 business administrator qualification. Before I started, I did have trepidations about being an apprentice as we have all heard the stories of apprentices getting the ‘worst’ jobs and so on. These trepidations were very swiftly lifted on my very first day, I was introduced to the team and greeted like I had been there for months which allowed me to ask questions without fear.

I completed my qualification within the same team which was great as I find the Economy and Infrastructure Directorate very interesting. I enjoy the way the Council runs its apprenticeships; you get the time you need to understand things so you don’t feel rushed or overwhelmed. Support is on offer if you need it and the team are very open and welcoming so you don’t struggle in silence.

I am 25 so I have experience in quite a few jobs, but I can say this apprenticeship is the best opportunity I have ever done as I see this as the start of my career. I have never been so motivated to get up in the morning as every new day brings a new challenge. I completed my Business Admin level 3 qualification and then obtained a full time permanent position within the team.

As I want to progress in my career, I am now enrolling to continue my studies and undertake a level 4 Associate Project Manager apprenticeship again with the full support of my team and line manager.

Kieran

I am currently studying for The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) qualification via the apprenticeship route. After completing my Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) qualification, I decided to continue my development and take the next step towards becoming a fully qualified accountant. As I was already working for the Council, I discussed with my manager about undertaking the CIPFA qualification, and we were able to quickly get me signed up in time for the next semester start date.

Completing this qualification via the apprenticeship route has been incredibly valuable as I am able to link together my day-to-day work with what I’m learning in the course, as well as developing my skills and behaviours. While it has been challenging, the support of my manager and the apprenticeship team has been fantastic and enabled me to pass my exams and progress through the course.

I would recommend enquiring about completing an apprenticeship, as you can develop your skills and knowledge whilst continuing to gain experience in your job. With Solihull Council behind you providing a supportive and encouraging environment, an apprenticeship is a great opportunity to take up.

Ruqqayah Hussain

My apprenticeship began in October 2023 as a benefits assessor and I'm working towards a Level 4 qualification in Revenues and Welfare Benefits Practitioner.

After completing college, a traineeship helped me understand my next steps. That’s when I discovered apprenticeships—and I knew that this was the right path for me. As I learn best through hands-on experience, the idea of working, earning, and studying simultaneously really appealed to me.

Since joining, my experience has been nothing short of amazing. I’ve received continuous support from my managers, colleagues, and tutors, who are committed to helping me succeed.

I work four days a week, where I receive on-the-job training, develop transferable skills, and grow professionally. I’m also given one dedicated day a week to focus on my studies for the Level 4 qualification.

The biggest advantage of an apprenticeship is the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals, while earning a living and progressing toward a recognised qualification.

Being part of Solihull Council has been an incredibly rewarding experience. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time here and have set my focus on a permanent role as a benefits assessment officer.

Samuel Lawrence

While I had originally planned to attend university, I quickly realised that this route wasn’t right for me. I began researching apprenticeships and soon discovered opportunities at Solihull Council.

I was drawn to the Council, as I knew it would be an ideal place to start a career in the public sector, while taking on a fulfilling and challenging role.

I applied to the chief executive’s department as an apprentice business administrator, as it would provide opportunities for progression, while learning  important new skills and strengthening those I already had.

So far, the role has been extremely rewarding. I am required to adapt and improve every day in a reactive environment that keeps me busy and feeling fulfilled.

The Council has provided any support I need, while giving me the time to focus on the study side of the apprenticeship. While I , at times, felt out of place and overwhelmed - the support, guidance, and patience from my line manager and other colleagues has given me the confidence to feel at home within my role.

Tom Evans

I am a Level 7 apprentice at Solihull Council, currently working as a Senior Accounting Technician within the UK Central finance team. I began my journey as a Level 3 AAT apprentice in 2021, shortly after completing my A levels. At the time, I was deciding between going to university or pursuing an apprenticeship. I chose the latter because the opportunity to gain practical experience while learning was very appealing.

During my apprenticeship, I had the chance to rotate through Solihull Council's finance teams over the first two years, gaining valuable insights and a broad understanding of how the council works. I completed both Level 3 and Level 4 AAT qualifications at college, attending one day a week and receiving ample study time during exam periods.

Halfway through my Level 4 studies, I successfully applied for a permanent role in the UK Central team, which allowed me to take on more responsibility and continue progressing in my career. This role has also enabled me to further my professional development by starting the Level 7 ACCA qualification, and I’m looking forward to sitting my first exam in December.

My apprenticeship has been incredibly rewarding, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to begin a career in finance.

Sarah Fowler

I was searching for jobs and came across a role at Solihull Council in the Elections office.

I thought that the hours were what I was looking for being full time and the pay is also at a good rate. I wanted the opportunity to work at the Council, and it is great working in the centre of Solihull too.

My current role plays to my strengths alongside the bonus of completing a Level 3 qualification in business administration. This is the area I want to work in and put's me in good stead for future job roles.