Our work is led by our amazing Council of current and recent apprentices. They bring a wealth of personal experience and knowledge to guide decisions about the Association’s strategy and focus.
Click on a member of the Council below to find out more about them.
L3 Rail Engineering, Network Rail
My name is Adelaja Aladejobi (Ade). I have MSc, BSc in Logistics and supply chain management and Economic statistic. I have an acumen of various industry for over 15 years industrial experience. After a career change, I decided to join Network Rail on apprenticeship Level 3 Rail Engineering because I believe university won’t give me the technical skills, behaviour and knowledge required to achieve my goals as a railway maintenance technician engineer. It was a major mind opener and a career path I will always encourage others to follows.
L6 Digital and Technology Solutions Past Degree Apprentice, Science and Technology Facilities Council
My name is Andrew Bolt. I recently completed a Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions apprenticeship, specialising in Software Engineering. Before this, I had completed a Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship in the same subject, with Distinction.
After leaving sixth form, I had wanted to study Mathematics with French at university. However, I was drawn to the fact that apprenticeships suit my style of learning. They are an education that immediately and meaningfully applies knowledge from a range of sources and delivery methods, including academia.
My experience as an apprentice has been both discontinuous and challenging. Despite starting my progress towards qualification in 2016, I finished in 2024 after some gaps. The experience has been very formative, and I am passionate about imparting everything that I have learned to help current and future apprentices. This is my primary motivation for being on the Apprentice Council, and for my contributions to the #ThinkBIG series of articles published as part of my role.
Through the advocacy of apprenticeships, I have been engaging with my local community. I believe that apprenticeships make a positive difference to the world in which we live.
L6 Business Transformation Degree Apprentice, Deloitte
Three years ago Harrison knew very little about apprenticeships, now he is enrolled onto one of the top apprenticeships in the UK and sits on the council for the AoA – a testament that if you want to, you can and that is what apprenticeships are about. Set yourself up and propel your life forward through an apprenticeship.
Apprenticeships allow you to understand how the world works and for Harrison, that is invaluable. Whilst the education, salary, and other benefits are great, the real value is derived from your early exposure into the working world which enables you to grasp the unspoken laws of working life; how to present yourself, converse, and develop maturity. Harrison is in his third year of four on the Deloitte Business Transformation Degree Apprenticeship and through this he has joined the AoA council to relay the skills and understandings he has developed so far.
Previously Harrison sat on the Student Governor board of Unloc, a non-profit that helps students find their voices within further education colleges. Harrison is passionate about social mobility.
Aside from work Harrison loves to eat, travel, talk, and walk.
L6 Business Management Degree Apprentice, Kantar
I’m Roman Brophy, a Level 6 Business Management Degree Apprentice at Kantar Worldpanel. I focus on updating client reports, answering questions, and handling briefs.
I chose a degree apprenticeship over a traditional university route because learning on the job suits me best.
Outside of work, I enjoy playing football and golf and socialising with friends.
L6 Chartered Business Manager Degree Apprentice, Moore Networking Ltd
Apprenticeships must run through my blood at this point. I have been working in the apprenticeships, employment and careers sector for 9 years now, starting off as an Advanced Apprentice Youth Worker at Norfolk County Council in 2015, completing in 2017. I started to develop a passion for apprenticeships during my time as Member of Youth Parliament for Norwich South (2014-2016), as the two campaign areas I was focused on was Mental Health in young people and Youth Employment. I was never informed about apprenticeships in school or sixth form, so I wanted to boost apprenticeship knowledge across education. The apprenticeship I then moved into gave me the perfect platform to continue doing this, aiming to go above and beyond where I could.
I have a strong passion developing apprenticeship programmes. This includes supporting/mentoring other apprentices, supporting organisations to develop apprenticeship programmes, and ensuring quality runs throughout. I work for a not-for-profit Flexi-Job Apprenticeship Agency, working with 30+ training providers to ensure quality is maintained, influencing Government/future Government policies, and working with Local Government on community projects. I am the East of England Co-Chair for the Apprenticeship Ambassador Network, and I am now delighted to be on the AoA Council. What an amazing tool and platform for apprentices!
I am over the moon to have received recognition as AAC National Apprenticeship Champion of the Year 2024, NAS Apprenticeship Champion of the Year for the East in 2023 and Apprentice Youth Worker of the Year 2017, as well as leading a company to 3 awards. These are all experiences I hope to support others in achieving in the future.
In my spare time, I love spending time with family and friends, exploring and adventuring new places. I coach tennis part time, and still play it too.
L7 MSc Railway Systems Engineering & Integration Degree Apprentice, Network Rail
I joined Network Rail in 2008 as a L3 apprentice on the Advanced Apprenticeship Scheme, qualifying in 2011.
In 2020, I became an apprentice again studying for an MSc in Railway Systems Engineering and Integration at the University of Birmingham. This was part of the integrated Rail and Rail Systems Principal Engineer Level 7 Integrated Degree Apprenticeship, which I graduated from in July 2024.
I am passionate about the impact apprenticeships can have, particularly for social mobility.
Both my apprenticeships changed my life in different ways. My Level 3 gave me the opportunity to have a career for life, become a homeowner and go on to study at university. And my Level 7 apprenticeship unlocked the next level of personal and professional development. I now have the opportunity to become a chartered engineer and strive for senior leadership roles in the future.
Level 6 Network Engineer Apprentice, BT
After Sixth Form, I took a gap year to work and travel. I then spent a year studying Business Management at university, but it felt pointless and came with unnecessary debt. I knew I wanted to work in technology and have a professional lifestyle. One day my friend received a leaflet which announced BT were hiring for their degree apprenticeship programme, this was the perfect opportunity. It gave me so much, culminating in a 1st class degree and an award. A royal visit to BT’s Adastral Park during my first few months really opened my eyes to the opportunities available here.
I believe I can help other apprentices because I’ve experienced the different paths available after Sixth Form. I know just how beneficial a degree apprenticeship is and will guide anyone down this path. The money and routine from the apprenticeship allowed me to invest in myself, improving my health and pursuing my passion for competitive bodybuilding. This wouldn’t have been possible without the structure and work ethic the apprenticeship provided. I’m very eager to give back and guide apprentices in any way I can.
L6 Chartered Management Degree Apprentice, Kantar
Hi, my name is Simran and I am a Level 6 Business Management Degree Apprentice at Kantar. I am in my second year of my apprenticeship, completing my current rotation in operations following my previous rotation in client services. This apprenticeship has offered me the opportunity to work towards gaining a degree whilst being able to learn invaluable skills and knowledge through my different rotations at work. Additionally, it has given me the chance to meet loads of people along the way. I am passionate about inspiring and encouraging others to undertake apprenticeships, with the many benefits they have to offer, and look forward to contributing to AoA!
L4 Project Management, Via East Midlands
Bilaal started medical school but concluded that Medicine wasn’t for him. Deciding to volunteer and work in the third sector, the skills he developed during this year at a food bank, a clothes bank, two non-profits, and a charity where he ran a branch, led to his successful application at Via, a highways and civil engineering company owned by Nottinghamshire County Council. Here, in the public and private sector, he upholds the values that drove his third sector experiences within his projects, whilst applying his analytical approach to problem-solving.
Bilaal is also a Mental Health First Aider and led the relaunch of Via’s mental health initiatives. His current main project is implementing drones and he has a specific remit for empowering colleagues across the company to initiate change for the better through a structured staff suggestion scheme. Speaking to parliamentarians during his 11th week as an apprentice, Bilaal identified challenges that aspiring apprentices face and aims to tackle this with AoA. Bilaal enjoys playing Ultimate Frisbee in his free time having improved his throw during the pandemic.
L6 Housing Policy and Practice Degree Apprentice, Flagship Group
Jasmine didn’t receive much information about apprenticeships when she was at school but decided it was the right path for her as it allowed her to gain hands-on experience in the workplace while gaining a degree. She is a passionate advocate for apprenticeships and inspiring others to undertake an apprenticeship. As a sub-regional chair for the Young Apprentice Ambassador Network, she has spoken about apprenticeships at a number of careers events and recorded multiple podcasts. Jasmine enjoys socialising with her friends and bottomless brunching at the weekends, as well as long dog walks with her cockapoo.
L2 Supply Chain Warehouse Operative, Amazon UK
I look forward to working with the Council and local
communities to help offer some of the social elements often missing from apprenticeship programmes and provide additional professional development opportunities and career advice.
I was an Authorised Altendorf Service Technician in my past career, always in ‘go’ mode. As a Ney engineer, I sometimes developed the capacity to say ‘stop’ and take a step back, allowing me to see more than just the problem in front of me, which I believe helped keep my business going for 17 years. I hope that I will be able to share my belief in the values of curiosity, openness, restlessness, and excellence as I look forward to furthering my education to help everyone’s future, continuing my journey, and working with people across the country. As an Amazon member of staff and apprentice, IET volunteer member, Bedford College volunteer Technician Assistant and now AoA Council member, I expect to find the gateway to the future I have dreamed of in a world that continues to adapt to
ever-changing circumstances. I urge all to join apprenticeships as they are a brilliant opportunity for all brands, employers, and the UK’s communities.–
‘Work hard. Have fun. Make history and be a legend.’
Level 4 Software Developer, Colchester Teacher Training Consortium
I always knew I wanted to earn while I learn in which field I was not sure. However, I knew I did have a passion for IT and fixing things!
I have a strong passion for showing newly joined apprentices my experiences of my apprenticeship, as well as showing the day to day life of what it’s like to step straight into work after school!
In my spare time I do really enjoy going out with my mates and socializing, especially escape rooms! I really do like them, they are very interesting and are a great brain teaser!
I do think AoA is a great tool for apprentices, to not only connect but the platform also offers a great insight into shared experiences of what people have gone through during their time as an apprentice!
L7 Solicitor Degree Apprentice, Weightmans
Ironically, I owe a lot to the pandemic – it pushed me into a gap year that gave me plenty of time to research and think about my career. Despite being branded as destined to just go to University, I have always had a special affinity for degree apprenticeships, as they simply provide opportunities and maximise learning in ways that other routes do not. For this reason, I am passionate about the promotion and accessibility of apprenticeships, as well as dispelling myths and misconceptions surrounding them. I strongly believe that the work of the Association of Apprentices to plug the gap in the social side of our route to strengthen the existing network and assemble our ideas is invaluable.
Furthermore, I am an ambassador for Liverpool City Region ‘Be More’, overseen by the North-West Apprentice Ambassador Network, and a Diversity and Inclusion champion at my firm. Aside from work, University, and other commitments, you will most likely find me out for dinner with friends or shopping at Zara.
L6 Digital and Technology Solutions Degree Apprentice, Arup
Hannah started working at Arup at age 16 and completed a Level 3 Software Development Technician Apprenticeship. She is now in her fourth year of the Digital and Technology Solutions Degree Apprenticeship at Manchester Metropolitan University and is specialising in Data Analytics.
She is proud to be a STEM Ambassador who promotes STEM and apprenticeships to young people through outreach projects. Through her work she aims to inspire young people and encourage them to consider apprenticeships and careers in STEM. She often speaks to teachers and students about her career journey, the different careers in STEM and the benefits of apprenticeships.
She was appointed as Arup’s Early Career Representative’s Apprenticeship Lead and works closely with the Early Careers team to improve the experience of apprentices at Arup and advocate for apprentices.
L6 Software Engineering Apprentice, Thales
When she finished college, Emma wanted to gain workplace experience immediately, so an apprenticeship suited her perfectly. She enjoys the many opportunities the apprenticeship has given her and looks forward to what’s to come as she feels her apprenticeship could lead her into a number of routes in the future.
She is a Greater Manchester Apprentice Ambassador and part of the YAAN. She is also a Digital Her role model for Manchester Digital, encouraging young women into digital careers. In her free time, Emma scrapbooks to wind down and plays a variety of games, sometimes with friends and family. It’s reported that her favourite is The Sims!
Level 6 Register Nurse Degree Apprentice, Great Ormond Street Hospital
My name is Dhimple and I am a Register Nurse Degree Apprentice (Child Branch – 4 year program) with BPP University. I have worked a Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) for Children for 14 years with most of my time specialising cross the Cardiology services. I currently work as Ventricular Assist Device (VAD/mechanical heart) Specialist Senior Associate Carer. I am currently a second-year apprentice about to start my sixth ward placement on the cancer and leukaemia ward for children at GOSH.
My active roles as a Diversity Ambassador, Apprenticeship Champion and Student Voice for the School of Nursing at BPP all allow me to be an advocate for my peers and work closely with program leaders to improve learner experience. I regularly partake in numerous focus groups/boards such as the Education & Standards Committee and Students’ Association Board of Governors to improve the apprenticeship experience as part of my ambassador duties at BPP University. I’m also the President & Founder of BPP Nursing Society London. As a passionate and committed individual this apprenticeship has given me a chance to achieve my goal of becoming a paediatric nurse at GOSH. I am an enthusiastic learner and the apprenticeship is a great opportunity for me to learn new skills and develop further on my existing skill set and deep-rooted passion for nursing. I strive to make a positive difference in all that I apply myself to.
L6 Chartered Management Degree Apprentice, HomeServe
Simon went down the traditional route of O and A Levels, then a BSc in Mathematics in the 80s. Due to the economic position at the time, Simon struggled to find work and volunteered on an archaeological dig for several years, eventually getting an IT job.
Having progressed through being a Night Operative, Programmer, Analyst Programmer, Senior Analyst Programmer, Development Team Leader and Senior Development Team Leader, Simon had the chance to enrol on a Level 5 Operational Department Manager Apprenticeship, using HomeServe’s Apprenticeship Levy. This enabled Simon to manage a complex and demanding set of projects at HomeServe.
Simon is of the firm belief that the Apprenticeship was the main reason why he coped with the workload. Simon wanted to continue being involved in Apprenticeships after he had finished, and enrolled on a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship. Simon has recently been promoted to Development Manager, as a direct result of completing his Apprenticeship.
Simon’s Manager was an Apprentice, and Simon has managed four apprentices, with the final two looking to complete their apprenticeships in the next few months. Simon would like to take on two new Apprentices later this year. So, Apprenticeships are really important to HomeServe, and to Simon.
In his spare time, Simon plays Role-playing Games, and has written several books. Don’t confuse Simon with the Oxford Don of the same name, as Simon knows nothing about the other Simon’s subject. A lifelong fan of Fantasy and SciFi, Simon regularly binges such programmes on streaming sites. He speaks some Russian and would love to go back, on vacation, once the current situation has stabilised.
L4 Financial Markets Apprentice, Standard Chartered
After completing my A levels in June 2022, I started my apprenticeship journey at Standard Chartered in August 2022 working in Financial Markets.
A year into working at the bank, my qualification changed and I began a completely new apprenticeship. I had no idea what to expect which is when I discovered the Association of Apprentices! I attended a networking event and was so encouraged by the amount of apprentices working across various industries that shared relatable experiences and helpful advice. The resources on AoA Connect really helped me to better understand the apprenticeship process and also allowed me to help my peers.
Thanks to AoA, I learned to enjoy my apprenticeship even more and have had amazing opportunities as a result of being a member. I am now two years in the sector and a year into my qualification, soon to be a completed apprentice!
I love that AoA brings apprentices together from all of the country and across so many different industries. I am a huge advocate for apprenticeships, I want as many people as possible to have access to the amazing opportunities I’ve been lucky enough to be given and I’m really fortunate to be able to further my ambassadorial work with AoA. Apprenticeships have come a long way but there’s always room for improvement and I hope I can be a part of changing them for the better. I’m so excited to be a part of the council and contribute towards the fantastic work they have already done. Most importantly, I’m really looking forward to connecting with the community!
L3 Technician Engineering Apprentice, Network Rail
My name is Sebastian, and I am currently a Rail Management Engineer Apprentice with Network Rail, specialising in Technical Engineering for Rail Infrastructure and Track Maintenance. Before joining the rail industry, I founded Sebo Media and taught myself Final Cut Pro X, Premier Pro, Photoshop, and After Effects.
I also hold an NVQ in Digital Marketing, with experience in planning and optimising digital strategies and social media campaigns. I contributed to the Bridge Street Development Memorial project with Peterborough City Council and helped set up an Education Centre in Mumbai. As a Council member and Events Ambassador for the Association of Apprentices (AoA), I work to enhance AoA events and empower apprentices.
In my free time, I enjoy mountain biking, wakeboarding, building Lego, traveling, and indulging in fine red wine and tequila.
Level 6 Business Management Degree Apprentice, Kantar
Hey there, I’m Robert, a 20-year-old business management degree apprentice. After completing my A-Levels, I found myself standing at the crossroads of my future.
Choosing an apprenticeship wasn’t just about ticking boxes; it was a deliberate choice driven by my desire to gain real-world experience while also minimizing the financial burden of pursuing higher education. London became my bustling playground where I live and work, constantly inspired by the city’s energy and opportunities.
I am currently a degree apprentice at Kantar, where I get to put my knowledge into practice while simultaneously pursuing a higher degree. Advocating for apprenticeships has become a natural extension of my journey. I’ve experienced first-hand the immense value they bring in building a strong foundation of skills and expertise.
Beyond my professional pursuits, I indulge in a variety of hobbies. Videography is my creative outlet, allowing me to capture moments and tell stories through the lens. When I’m not immersed in the world of visuals, you’ll find me backstage operating sound and lighting equipment. And then, there’s astronomy – gazing at the universe through telescopes never fails to amaze me!
L3 Digital Technologies Solutions Professional (Level 6) (Integrated Degree), BT
Currently a Degree Apprentice @ BT Business, within Technical & Service Design as a Network Designer
Advocating for apprenticeships nationally as an Apprentice Ambassador with the Department for Education.
Formerly contributing to over 10+ million play sessions, including branded-experiences on the Roblox Platform as a contracted gameplay engineer, while spending time advocating for developer education, and using my time to teach what I’d learnt to aspiring game-developers as part of the Creator Events Program @ Roblox.
L6 Software Engineering Degree Apprentice, BT
I am currently coming to the end of my software engineering apprenticeship at BT. I want to share what I have learned. As well as be a voice for all apprentices on their journey. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to be a part of the Association of Apprentices (AoA) as a Council Member. The AoA represents a community that aligns perfectly with my passion for apprenticeships and my desire to make a positive impact on the lives of fellow apprentices.
As a Council Member, I’ll advocate for apprenticeships, foster collaboration, and offer guidance to fellow apprentices. Together, we’ll shape a vibrant and inclusive environment that unlocks the full potential of apprentices. I’m excited to contribute, learn, and inspire others within the AoA, igniting a new era of apprenticeship excellence.
L7 Accounting and Taxation Apprentice, via London
Sunny currently works in the Corporate Taxation Consultancy team, advising private multinational companies on transactions, mergers, acquisitions, and daily operations whilst studying for both the ACA and the CTA. Sunny previously worked in Assurance in the Banking and Capital Markets division of EY mainly specialising in investment banking and primes trading clients.
Externally, Sunny made history as the first Chinese and youngest Chair of the Chartered Accountants Student Society of London (CASSL) in 150 years (which represents the 7000+ ACA students in London), earning the prestigious PQ Award within a year and another PQ Award in his subsequent term.
Sunny is featured in The Accountant and PQ magazine and has shared his perspectives on social mobility and ESG in podcasts with ICAEW, ITV, Accountancy Hub and Apprentago. Sunny was also the winner of the Investors in People ‘Young person of the year award’. Sunny is committed to driving positive change and fostering inclusive growth.
Jan is the CEO of Occupational Awards Limited, a Director of the National Skills Academy for Food and Drink and an FE College Governor. She has over 35 years’ experience in the education sector in strategic and operational management of training programmes with colleges, private training providers, local authorities the voluntary sector and not for profit organisations. Jan has previously been a board member of the Learning and Skills Council, chair of the North Yorkshire Training Provider network and Vice-Chair of Yorkshire Coast College and a Governor of the Grimsby Institute for Further and Higher Education. She has extensive experience of education policy, apprenticeships, qualification, and curriculum development as well as business improvement.
Jan joined OAL in 2019, a leading non-profit industry-focused Awarding and End-Point Assessment Organisation, supporting a wide range of employers and of key stakeholders to succeed and surpass expectations. Jan is committed to continuous improvement and enthusiastic about improving the effectiveness, impact and quality of apprenticeships, education, and training in the UK and internationally. She has a wide range of experience of working in a collaborative context with employers and training providers to develop End Point Assessment, apprenticeships, and a wide range of vocational programmes.
