Olivia

“An apprenticeship opens up so many opportunities and gives you a real, hands-on experience that you just can’t get from studying alone. Taking the leap into work has definitely been one of the best choices I’ve ever made.”

Olivia joined New City College as an A Level student but quickly realised that she had chosen the wrong pathway. Even so, she worked hard and completed her Law course, achieving a Merit, before switching to a Level 3 Business Administrator Apprenticeship – which she felt would be more suitable for her career aims.

She attended Ardleigh Green Campus one day a week while working as an Office Administrator at Harrison How Ltd, based not far from Liverpool Street Station. She says making the change in her education journey and going out to work was one of the best decisions she has made.

Why did you choose an apprenticeship?

I knew from the moment I left school that an apprenticeship was the route I wanted to take. After spending a year at college studying A Levels, I realised it wasn’t the right fit for me and decided to make a change. Looking back now, choosing an apprenticeship was one of the best decisions I’ve made.

What apprenticeship did you study and where are you working now?

I started my Level 3 Business Administrator Apprenticeship in September 2023. Alongside my studies, I worked for an electrical contractors in London, Harrison How Ltd, as an Office Administrator. I’ve now completed and passed my apprenticeship and I’m still working there, continuing to enjoy every moment of my job.

What does your role involve?

My role keeps me busy, challenged and constantly learning. I work with clients every day, which has really helped me develop my communication skills and confidence. No two days are the same, and I’ve learned how to handle new situations professionally and with ease.

How has the apprenticeship helped you develop your skills?

The apprenticeship has been a huge confidence booster. One of the biggest turning points was the project stage, where I had to lead a team. That experience pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me develop strong leadership, teamwork and communication skills – all of which I use daily in the workplace.

What support did you receive during your apprenticeship?

Throughout my apprenticeship, both at work and at college, I felt completely supported. My teachers were always there to help, whether it was with my studies or something outside of work. The course covered so many aspects of administration, which gave me a really good understanding of the different sectors within the industry.

What are your plans for the future?

My main goal is to keep progressing. I’ve grown so much over the course of my apprenticeship and I want to continue building on that. I’m not completely sure what my long-term future looks like yet, but having this qualification means I know there are plenty of exciting options ahead.

What advice would you give to someone considering this course?

If you’re thinking about working in an office-based or administrative environment, I can’t recommend this course enough. It opens up so many opportunities and gives you real, hands-on experience that you just can’t get from studying alone. Taking the leap into an apprenticeship has definitely been one of the best choices I’ve ever made.

All you need to know about apprenticeships at New City College.