Going into sixth form may seem like the obvious choice for many young people as they consider their post 16 options, but it wasn’t for me. Once you have got your GCSE results, it can be confusing to then decide what you want to do for the rest of your life. I quickly realised sixth form was too structured for me, and I felt like I needed to know what it was like to have a real job.

I floundered for a few weeks applying for random jobs, still unsure which career path I wanted to go down - that was when Inspira helped to open doors for me. The career management and personal development company offered me free, one to one support from a professional adviser. As I talked about wanting a real job, rather than sixth form or college, the Adviser explained to me about the different types of apprenticeships available. Apprenticeships immediately appealed to me as I could gain a qualification outside of school as well as getting vital, on the job experience.

I registered with Carlisle College and was put forward for a business admin apprenticeship. I had to go through a formal job interview which was quite nerve racking as I didn’t have much experience. To my surprise the interview went well, and I was offered the job. I was super excited at gaining my first employment and having a wage come in.

Since starting my apprenticeship I have gained a wealth of new skills, qualifications and explored future career options. The opportunities I have had due to my apprenticeship have been amazing. I completed my Level 2 in Business Admin within a year, as well as completing a Level 2 in IT and going on the National Citizen Service programme.

I was once quite quiet and reserved but now my confidence has soared to new limits. I feel anything is possible and it all started with applying for an apprenticeship.