Latest News

As part of National Careers Week, we’re sharing the stories of apprentices who are gaining hands-on experience while working towards a qualification. Kya, a Marketing Automations Apprentice at Ideagen, shares her journey, challenges, and successes so far.

A Dynamic Role in Marketing Automation

“My role as a Marketing Automations Apprentice is really varied,” Kya explains. “I work closely with the multi-channel marketing team – they provide the content, and I check it over before distributing it through email campaigns.”

No two days are the same for Kya, and she thrives in the fast-paced environment. “Priorities change all the time, so I try to stay organised with a to-do list. I love the variety – it keeps things interesting!”

Choosing the Apprenticeship Route

After completing her A-Levels, Kya realised the traditional academic path wasn’t for her. “School naturally pushed me towards university, but I was tired of exams,” she says. “I wanted something more hands-on, and an apprenticeship offered that.”

She initially wasn’t sure if an apprenticeship was the right fit but was drawn to digital marketing. “Social media and digital marketing have grown so much, and the more I researched, the more I realised that getting a qualification in this field would be great for me.”

Through the Think Big programme, Kya found her opportunity. “A family friend made me aware of the roles. I was 20 at the time, and I realised you’re never too old for an apprenticeship. They aren’t just for 16-year-olds – there’s no set path to success.”

Key Skills and Learning on the Job

Kya highlights communication as the most valuable skill she has developed. “Ideagen is such a big business, and I constantly have to push myself to communicate effectively rather than hide behind my manager,” she says. “When challenges arise, I now know how to approach them.”

She also values the structured learning. “The learning elements of the apprenticeship are engaging – it’s not just sitting and listening. Everything we learn directly contributes to our work, making it a much more immersive experience.”

Support and Overcoming Challenges

Ideagen provides ongoing support through regular one-to-one meetings with her manager and scheduled check-ins with the apprenticeship provider. “I never feel like I’m left alone. I always have someone to turn to if I have concerns.”

One of the biggest challenges for Kya was presenting in front of others. “At first, I lacked confidence, but the more I did it, the more comfortable I became. Pushing through that challenge has really helped me grow.”

Achievements and Future Goals

One of Kya’s proudest achievements is earning the trust of her team. “I don’t feel like ‘just an apprentice’ – I’m a valued member of the team. It’s great to know my colleagues trust me and appreciate my contributions.”

Looking ahead, she hopes to secure a full-time role. “Starting with an apprenticeship has given me real-world experience, which will help me progress into a more senior position. I’d love to explore different areas of marketing and open up new opportunities for myself.”

Advice for Aspiring Apprentices

Kya encourages anyone considering an apprenticeship to go in with an open mind. “You don’t need to have all the answers – you just need the determination to learn. When I started, I had no idea what I’d be doing, but now I know so much.”

She also addresses common misconceptions. “People think apprenticeships are only for school leavers, but that’s not true. You can start an apprenticeship at any age—it’s okay to take a different route to find the right career.”

Why Apprenticeships Are Worth It

For Kya, the hands-on approach of an apprenticeship was the right choice. “If you learn best by doing rather than sitting exams, this is the perfect option. I love learning on the job, and an apprenticeship allows me to do that while getting paid. It’s been an amazing experience.”