Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2024 Case Study – Ashleigh Coghill, Highlands & Islands Climate Hub
Scottish Apprenticeship Week stands as a nationwide celebration of apprenticeships, providing an opportunity for everyone to advocate the advantages of work-based learning to individuals, employers, and the broader community.
During Scottish Apprenticeship Week, the spotlight is directed towards the positive impacts of work-based learning on:
- Individuals of diverse ages and backgrounds
- Employers, regardless of their size
- The overall economic landscape
Through DYW North Highland, we have pulled together case studies from local apprentices, showcasing their valuable advice and personal experiences.
Ashleigh Coghill, Highlands & Islands Climate Hub
What is the title of your Course/Apprenticeship?
MA (Hons) Business Management Graduate Apprenticeship.
What is your job title?
Graduate Apprentice at the Highlands and Islands Climate Hub.
Why did you choose an Apprenticeship?
By participating in the Young Enterprise Company Programme during my final year of High School I saw the value of industry experience and I wanted to continue to immerse myself in the business world while studying. So the opportunity to study towards a degree while gaining work experience outweighed solely going to University for me. The chance to begin to build my career while making a positive contribution to the community, and developing my own knowledge really excited me so it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
Is there any advice you would give to anyone considering an Apprenticeship?
Do your research and be proactive. University isn’t the only route to getting a degree, Graduate Apprenticeships are here now which I wasn’t aware of in S5 & S6. Don’t just wait for Apprenticeships to pop up, reach out to businesses you think you align well with and see if they have any opportunities.
Look at people in jobs you aspire towards, to see how they got there and if you believe an Apprenticeship could also take you there.
Most importantly, talk to people in Apprenticeships and people at University to gain a broad perspective before making a decision.
What has been the highlight of your Apprenticeship?
By doing a Graduate Apprenticeship I have boosted my own confidence in industry, and really got a great insight into the opportunities around me. Seeing all the positive climate action that the Climate Hub promotes is really rewarding, and I have really enjoyed meeting new people and forming new connections I wouldn’t have made for a few more years had I have gone to University.
What are the next steps for you after your Apprenticeship?
Once I complete my Apprenticeship I am looking forward to being able to use my developed skills to take on more responsibilities within my job, and continue to move forward in my career. I believe by the time I finish my apprenticeship and graduate I will have a good idea of which elements of businesses my skillset is most aligned with so I can pursue opportunities in those areas.