As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2018, we’re celebrating apprentices and the benefits they bring to the workplace. We would like you to meet our current apprentices working at the UK Space Agency, and hear about their experiences so far.
Robyn Haigh, 20, Communications Apprentice
Being an apprentice at the UK Space Agency means I get to use my creativity and passion for marketing while learning about what I find most interesting: space. This opportunity to do the two things I love for work makes every day exciting. In my day-to-day activities I get to create graphics for social media and design content which is used for events around the country.
What I love about being an apprentice is that my work already directly influences the Agency. You feel as though you are making a difference, you’re a valued member of an influential Agency. If you’re considering an apprenticeship find something that you’re eager to learn about. You gain qualifications while being paid and earn invaluable work experience. For me, I feel so proud to say that I’m on track for a career that I love at the age of 20.
Leah Daniels, 18, Growth Apprentice
The best thing about being an apprentice for me is the opportunity to gain valuable practical experience, building up knowledge and skills, gaining qualifications and earning money all at the same time. It gives you a real chance to put your skills into practice and helps you to gain confidence in a working environment.
Each day consists of something different for me – which I love! Some days I will be doing my usual business/admin work, whilst other days I am going to events and training courses in so many different places. My favourite thing about being a UK Space Agency apprentice is the variety of work as well as learning the most interesting things every day!
Being an apprentice is something I never thought I would be, but after realising all the benefits that come with it, it was an easy decision to make. My advice to anyone else considering an apprenticeship would be to go for it and take every opportunity you can to develop. I am now 4 months in at the UK Space Agency and I could not be happier.
Ellie Hand, 19, Programmes Apprentice
At 18 years old I had lost sight of what I wanted to do with my career. I had drifted through my school years not thinking about my future. Being someone that didn’t enjoy exams (who does?) and not wanting to go to University and end up £30,000+ in debt, I started looking for an apprenticeship where I could get experience in the workplace, earn a qualification and earn a salary at the same time.
My job role includes arranging and attending meetings for administrative support, manage the review process for the Aurora Programme and other one off tasks. At a young age I was fascinated by the solar system, space and the great unknown. Therefore one of the best parts of my job is attending meetings. I am part of the Programme Management Board for Plato, a new medium-classed mission. Its goal is to detect Earth-size planets or super-Earths orbiting around stars in the habitable zone searching for habitable exoplanets.
I am due to finish my Level 3 Business Administration qualification at the end of the month, and will subsequently be starting the Level 4. I am delighted that I have been given the opportunity to stay at the UK Space Agency.
Thinking about what I have achieved on my apprenticeship so far, I would never look back. If you manage to find an apprenticeship which combines your passions, I recommend you pursue it without thinking twice.
Thinking of a career in the space industry?
If you’re thinking about pursuing a career in the space industry, the UK Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (UKSEDS) have a website dedicated to getting you started. Visit the Space Careers website to see how to kick off your career in space!
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