Zoe joined EducationScape as an apprentice and has since completed three apprenticeships, most recently the Accounts Assistant apprenticeship, which she started in July 2023 and completed in November 2024. Her progression shows how apprenticeships can support long-term career development, not just a first step into work.
Before moving into finance, Zoe completed Level 2 and Level 3 Business Administrator apprenticeships, which she credits with giving her a strong foundation in the business environment.
“Those apprenticeships introduced me to how a business works and gave me the skills I needed to succeed in an admin role. As I developed, I realised I had a real interest in finance and wanted to progress further.”
Choosing an apprenticeship allowed Zoe to continue working while gaining the knowledge and experience needed to move into a finance-focused role, something that suited both her learning style and career ambitions.
Choosing an apprenticeship allowed Zoe to continue working while gaining the knowledge and experience needed to move into a finance-focused role, something that suited both her learning style and career ambitions.
Learning by doing
Before starting her Accounts Assistant apprenticeship, Zoe expected the learning to directly support her day-to-day responsibilities, and that’s exactly what she experienced.
“Being able to apply my learning to real workplace tasks was invaluable. It really helped reinforce and cement my understanding.”
One of the biggest benefits, she explains, was the opportunity to put theory into practice immediately. Rather than learning concepts in isolation, Zoe was able to use her knowledge in real scenarios, helping her build confidence and capability at the same time.
This practical approach is something she believes would have been difficult to replicate through a more traditional university route.
Support that makes a difference
Alongside hands-on experience, Zoe highlights the importance of the support she received throughout her apprenticeship.
She was given dedicated time to focus on her studies, along with additional flexibility during exam periods, something that made balancing work and learning far more manageable.
She also credits her manager, Victoria Boyle, for playing a key role in her success.
“Victoria was a huge support. As a former apprentice herself, she really understood what I was going through and was able to offer guidance and reassurance when I needed it most.”
That understanding and encouragement helped Zoe stay motivated and confident, particularly during more challenging periods of the apprenticeship.
Moments that matter
When asked about a moment that made her realise how much she’d grown, Zoe doesn’t hesitate.
“Completing my first VAT return was a great achievement.”
It was a clear milestone, one that demonstrated not just technical competence, but trust and responsibility within her role. Moments like these, she says, made the value of the apprenticeship feel real.
Confidence, progression and future goals
Completing her apprenticeship has had a noticeable impact on Zoe’s confidence and ambitions.
She now feels comfortable taking on more complex tasks independently and is continuing to develop her skills with a clear goal in mind: progressing into a more senior finance role.
“My apprenticeship gave me the knowledge, experience and confidence I needed to prepare for increased responsibility in the workplace.”
The combination of structured learning and real-world experience has put her firmly on that path.
Advice for future apprentices
Zoe is passionate about encouraging others to consider apprenticeships, whether they’re leaving school or thinking about a career change later in life.
“Go for it. I didn’t start my first apprenticeship until I was 19, and I’ve now completed three. Each one has been invaluable in building my skills, experience and confidence.”
For Zoe, apprenticeships haven’t just supported her career, they’ve shaped it.
Supporting apprenticeships beyond the classroom
In addition to her finance role, Zoe plays a key part in supporting the wider apprenticeship and training community through events.
She manages the Apprenticeship & Training Awards, including the Parliamentary Reception and Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony, and supports delivery at the Apprenticeship and Training Conference.
Her favourite part?
“Celebrating all the finalists and winners at the Awards Ceremony. After months of planning, it’s incredibly rewarding to see it all come together.”
It’s a fitting role for someone whose own journey reflects the power of opportunity, support and progression through apprenticeships.
