Previous Work

Before applying for an apprenticeship with Swift, I completed a BTEC at college. I always knew that I didn’t want to do university. I chose to do an apprenticeship because I wanted to gain hands on experience and start my career in the digital marketing industry.

"I've never been happier than I am now."

Applying

After sixth form, I had been applying for apprenticeships but faced many dead ends. Swift provided me with the support I needed. They helped me improve my CV before they sent it off to employers, made sure I was prepared for interviews, made sure I was safe and knew how I would reach the interviews I went to and kept in contact with me informing me of new jobs that were near my area.

My Experience

I started my apprenticeship in April 2021 in a small digital marketing agency. As it was a small business with very few employees, my employer was having to do majority of the marketing and I didn't think this was the right fit for me. I raised this with Swift, who worked with me to find suitable employment that met all of my individual needs. 

When I started working at Swift, I was greeted with open arms and I can honestly say that I knew from the very first day that this was the atmosphere I would enjoy working in. They listened to my talents and what I felt comfortable doing and made sure to accommodate that; any new ideas I have are always given an opportunity to be tried out. 

My views have shifted since working at that small marketing agency and I've learnt that every company is different. I believe that working at my new employer was the better option for me personally. This is because, although there are more employees working here, I feel as though I can ask more people for feedback, even if they don’t do marketing. It was difficult for me to ask for feedback previously, whereas now I can do this confidently as I now feel part of a team.

"Swift has supported me in many ways, not only with my work but with other aspects as well."

The support I received

Over the last year, I had struggled with my mental health, as a result of the pandemic and the various lockdowns we were subjected to. At swift, I feel comfortable enough to talk about how I’m feeling and about mental health as a whole, without feeling judged or as if I’m complaining. Nobody looks down on anyone and everyone is incredibly understanding. If I’m having a bad day or just feeling down, I know I can speak to any member of staff and they would either listen or give me any advice I need. 

When it comes to my work, if I ever need any advice, I know I can either ask one of the tutors or any other members of staff and they will give me their honest opinion on it. Having a dedicated tutor is quite beneficial since I can approach them for assistance with anything at any time, and they are always willing to assist. I have really enjoyed the lessons I have attended so far, we go into breakout rooms when we are given tasks so that we can discuss with other apprentices before discussing it with the entire group. The lessons I’ve attended so far have helped me in my job role because I’ve learnt how to do things before applying them in my job role.

Progression

During my 3 months at Swift, I believe I have progressed not only in my work but personally as well. I have developed confidence in my own work. 

Alongside my colleague Mathew, I manage the social media. Instagram and TikTok for the business; I communicated with Liz (the business development manager) that social media content was a strength of mine, and now I consistently publish on these two social media platforms. I’ve also gained more confidence in using LinkedIn which at first seemed like a new language to me.

After my apprenticeship

At the end of my apprenticeship, I wish to continue working with Swift and progress in the digital marketing industry. This apprenticeship is not only providing me with experience as a digital marketer, but is also providing me the experience of working a professional setting. I'd like to be able to share my experiences with future apprentices to show them the benefits of a Swift Digital Marketing apprenticeship.