BASINGSTOKE College of Technology (BCoT) is one of the largest providers of apprenticeships in the region, working with both large and small employers across all industry sectors.

In June 2017, BCoT was ranked within the top 12 per cent of colleges nationally for timely achievement of apprenticeships in the National Achievement Rates tables.

Joe Chuter studied a level 3 advanced apprenticeship in mechanical engineering

Former All Hallows student, employed by Kinetrol

After studying at another college after leaving school, Joe was keen to kick start his career in engineering with an apprenticeship. After applying for a couple of roles, he secured a place at Kinetrol Ltd in Farnham.

Joe started his Apprenticeship in September 2015 and in that time he has progressed from Level 2 to Level 3.

He said: “Starting an apprenticeship was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It’s great because I learn the hands on skills at work and then learn why I do certain things and all the knowledge behind engineering at college.”

Daniel Rose, a former marketing apprentice, now studying digital marketing at the University of Portsmouth

“When I left school, I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to do. I ended up studying construction and the built environment, which I enjoyed at first but soon realised it really wasn’t for me. Despite knowing the construction industry wasn’t for me, I persevered with the course and came out with a good grade after the two years.

"I had always been interested in business and media so started to look for an apprenticeship in either area. Luckily, just as I was looking, BCoT were advertising a marketing apprenticeship, which sounded fantastic. I went ahead and applied for the role and got the job – I was so happy.

"My apprenticeship was invaluable to me and gave me the opportunity to develop and explore a variety of technical skills both in digital practises and general marketing. During my time at the college, I really developed in confidence as before I lacked in self-confidence and always questioned my ability. In addition, it prepared me for my future studies by giving me the basic knowledge of marketing that I can expand at university.

"I would recommend the apprenticeship route to anyone who wants to gain knowledge, whilst gaining experience in a professional workplace. The pathway is a great way to explore different avenues and develop a broad set of skills that can be used in a successful prospective career.”

Sky Caves is studying at BCoT as a learning technologist apprentice within the Blended Learning Digital Team. On the learning side, Sky is currently enrolled on a digital creative media apprenticeship and on completion, is looking to go into a learning technology role.

"My apprenticeship at BCoT has been invaluable to me as it's given me the opportunity to develop and explore a variety of technical skills in Media, whilst also developing a more specialist skill set relating to my job role.

"It's also been great for growing my confidence as I'm able to try new things and take risks but in a safe and controlled environment.

"I would highly recommend a vocational course to anybody who enjoys learning in a hands on environment, but who also wants the opportunity to explore various avenues in their industry and develop a broader set of skills for their prospective career."

To find out more about apprenticeships at BCoT, go to bcot.ac.uk/apprenticeships.