FROM DEGREE TO APPRENTICESHIP: CHLOE’S CAREER CHANGE

Already have a degree? That doesn’t mean an apprenticeship isn’t open to you. After graduating in Sports Psychology, Chloe Birchall used an apprenticeship to change direction, gain practical experience and begin a successful career in marketing.

University and apprenticeships are often presented as two alternative routes. However, choosing university first doesn’t prevent you from becoming an apprentice later.

That is exactly what Chloe Birchall did. After completing a Sports Science degree, Chloe realised she no longer wanted to pursue a career in the subject. Rather than feeling tied to her original decision, she applied for a level 3 Content Creator apprenticeship to gain the skills and experience needed to move into marketing.

Chloe, 25, achieved a Distinction in her apprenticeship, and now works as a marketing assistant at specialist logistics training provider TRS Training. Her story shows that going down the university route doesn’t automatically prevent you from doing an apprenticeship. Read our interview with Chloe to find out more.

Chloe, why did you originally choose sports science?

“I was interested in sport, so sports science seemed like a natural subject for me to study. However, while I was at university, I gradually lost my passion for it and realised that I didn’t want to pursue it as a career.

“Changing direction after completing a degree can feel daunting, but I knew I needed to find something that interested me and offered opportunities to develop.”

What attracted you to marketing?

“I started seeing videos on Instagram and TikTok showing what people working in marketing did from day to day. It looked creative and varied, and I liked the idea of finding new ways to promote products and services.

“Marketing is constantly changing, particularly because of social media and digital technology. That appealed to me because it meant there would always be something new to learn.”

Did you realise you could still do an apprenticeship after completing a degree?

“Not at first, but I looked into it and found it was possible. I knew I wanted to gain practical experience and develop skills for actually carrying out marketing work. Doing an apprenticeship meant I could do that while getting a wage. In my early 20s, it was important for me to be earning regular income.

“I completed the level 3 Content Creator apprenticeship with Baltic Apprenticeships while working at TRS Training.

“The programme included one or two days of online lessons each month, alongside assignments, workbooks and off-the-job learning. I could put what I learned into practice and build evidence through real projects at work.”

What support did you receive?

“I received support from both my manager at TRS Training and Baltic Apprenticeships.

“Having people available to answer questions and provide feedback was really valuable, particularly when I was completing assignments and preparing for my end-point assessment.

“Looking back, I 100% believe the apprenticeship route was the right choice for me. I learned a wide range of valuable skills that I continue to use in my role.”

How did it feel to achieve a Distinction?

“It felt amazing because all the work I had put into learning and preparing throughout the year had been rewarded.

“I was really proud of myself, and it gave me an extra boost of confidence. Although I already knew I was capable of doing the job, achieving a Distinction reinforced that belief and showed me what I could accomplish through hard work.”

What does a typical day in marketing look like?

“One of the things I enjoy most is that no two days are exactly the same.

“I could be writing a new course page for the website, editing a TikTok video, analysing the performance of Facebook advertising or responding to enquiries sent to the company’s information email address.

“I also manage TRS Training’s social media, produce blogs and case studies, gather feedback from learners and create marketing materials for events and the sales team.

“Social media involves much more than simply putting up a post. You have to understand who you are trying to reach, plan suitable content, create the graphics or videos, write the copy and then look at the results to see what worked.”

Which project are you most proud of?

“My favourite project was a National Apprenticeship Week campaign that I led for TRS Training.

“I helped plan the campaign and identified around 12 to 15 apprentices whose achievements we could celebrate. I developed a Hall of Fame-style concept for an industry press advert, created a dedicated Mailchimp landing page and shared the apprentices’ profiles across different marketing channels.

“It was rewarding to manage the project and see all the different elements come together. It also allowed the apprentices to share their achievements and inspire other people.”

What would you say to graduates considering an apprenticeship?

“Don’t assume apprenticeships are only for school leavers or people who haven’t been to university. If your degree hasn’t led you towards the career you want, an apprenticeship can give you the practical skills and experience to move into something different.

“Completing a degree doesn’t mean you have to stay on the same path forever. It is never too late to reconsider what you want and take your career in a new direction.”

What would you like to do next?

“My long-term ambition is to progress into a marketing executive or marketing manager role. I would also like to develop my knowledge of digital marketing and would potentially be interested in working abroad one day.

“I enjoy working at TRS Training, so I would also be happy to continue progressing within the company.

“Outside work, I enjoy going to the gym, Pilates and yoga, walking my dog, reading and spending time with my friends and family.”

Could an apprenticeship be your next step?

Chloe’s experience demonstrates that university and apprenticeships are not opposing routes. A degree can be one stage of your journey, while an apprenticeship can help you gain the occupational skills and experience needed for the next. You can start an apprenticeship with a previous qualification, including a degree. 

Unfortunately, the content creator apprenticeship is no longer available. Those interested in a similar career could explore the current level 3 multi-channel marketer apprenticeship, which develops the skills needed to support marketing campaigns across digital and offline channels.

To search through our live apprenticeship opportunities CLICK HERE or visit: https://lcrbemore.co.uk/apprenticeship/