Ella, 22 - Business Administration Apprentice at Robert Welch Designs. Winner of the West Midlands Intermediate Apprentice of the Year award at the National Apprenticeship Awards

I was eager to get my foot on the career ladder as soon as possible and gain genuine business experience whilst also continuing my academic learning.

One of the best things about my apprenticeship was the placement scheme, whereby I rotated around the business working two weeks in each department. This gave me valuable insight into how our business operates from all aspects

Upon completion of my Level 2 Business Admin apprenticeship with Robert Welch Designs I was offered a full-time permanent role and I decided to continue onto a Level 3 Business Admin qualification which was fully funded.

I am now an Export Sales Administrator working in a dedicated team handling the operational and sales support aspects for key international accounts worth over $5 million in export trade.