Celebrating National Apprentice Week

Q: Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your role at Beechwood?

Hi, I’m Cameron, and I’m the Marketing Apprentice here at Beechwood. I joined the team to develop my skills in marketing while gaining hands-on experience in a real working environment.

My role allows me to be creative, which is something I really enjoy. I’m responsible for creating engaging content for our social media platforms, capturing and editing photos and videos, and helping to showcase everything that happens across Beechwood. I also write blogs and newsletters for our website, ensuring our audience stays informed and connected with what we do. 

Q: What made you choose an apprenticeship instead of another path?

I knew university was not the right path for me. At 18, I was unsure of the career I wanted to pursue, and committing to a three-year degree without that clarity did not feel right. I was also mindful of the financial impact and the possibility of graduating with significant debt without a clear direction.

Choosing an apprenticeship felt like a more practical option, allowing me to gain real industry experience and develop professional skills without the financial pressure of university.

Q: What skills have you developed since starting your apprenticeship?

During my apprenticeship, I have developed my skills in the workplace. One of the biggest areas of growth has been my technical ability to create. Whether it’s creating graphics or writing newsletters, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in the quality of my work over time.

Additionally, spending one-on-one time with managers has greatly enhanced my communication and teamwork skills. I’ve become much more confident in approaching colleagues for guidance with understanding technical arborist terms. This support has helped me contribute more effectively to the team and feel more integrated within the business.

Q: What challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?

One of my biggest challenges was adapting to a more professional working environment. Before starting my apprenticeship, I worked at McDonald’s, which had a very different atmosphere. Most of the team were no older than 20, so it felt more social and relaxed rather than structured and corporate.

Moving into a professional workplace was a big adjustment for me. Suddenly, I was surrounded by experienced colleagues and trusted with real responsibilities that directly impact the business. At first, that felt quite overwhelming. There was definitely pressure in knowing that the work I produced represented the company.

However, over time, I have grown more confident in my role. As I have gained experience, I have become more comfortable taking ownership of tasks. Looking back, that initial challenge has actually helped me grow both professionally and personally.

Q: How has Beechwood supported you during your apprenticeship?

I am really fortunate to have strong support within the team. Emilia, who is the Marketing Manager here at Beechwood, previously completed the same apprenticeship course that I am currently studying. Because of that, she understands exactly what the process involves and the balance between work and study.

Knowing that she has been in the same position gives me a lot of reassurance. She is always there to answer any questions I have, offer guidance when I need it, and share her own experiences.

Q: What do you enjoy most about being an apprentice at Beechwood?

What I enjoy most about my apprenticeship is getting to use my creativity every day. On top of that, I work with an amazing group of people who are supportive, encouraging, and genuinely passionate about what they do. Being part of a team like this makes the experience even more rewarding.

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?

I would highly recommend pursuing any apprenticeship you might be interested in. I’m really grateful for mine, as it offers the perfect balance of earning while learning. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities.

It’s a fantastic way to develop real-world skills, gain professional experience, and grow your confidence, all while being fully supported along the way. For anyone unsure about their next step, an apprenticeship can open doors you might not even have considered.