I started my career in the private sector as a HR Support apprentice in 2019, and since then, apprenticeships have provided me with incredible learning opportunities, including the foundations for completing my CIPD Level 5, which has driven my career growth. Now, I champion apprenticeships in the North East, supporting and promoting their success. In 2023, I established the Group Apprentice Network within my organisation to bring apprentices together, helping them build connections, share experiences, and develop their careers. Creating a supportive community through workshops and mentorship, which has improved confidence, skills and engagement among apprentices.

Recently, I joined the North East Apprenticeship Ambassador Network (NEAAN) to advocate for apprenticeships on a wider platform. I want everyone to know how amazing apprenticeships are for both individuals and employers and I work hard to encourage more people to choose this career path.

I am passionate about continuing to develop awareness for apprenticeships, ensuring that more individuals can benefit from the same opportunities that shaped my own journey.

Ashley is the Apprenticeship Manager for Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service and serves as the Deputy Strategic Lead for Apprenticeships with the National Fire Chiefs Council. In this national role, Ashley has chaired the trailblazer groups responsible for reviewing and developing apprenticeship standards.

Since joining Merseyside in 2020 at the outset of their Employer Provider journey, Ashley has played a key role in shaping their apprenticeship provision. Under this leadership, Merseyside has supported over 250 apprentices across multiple standards and has consistently been recognised in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers since 2020.

With a career spanning leadership roles across schools, universities, and now in the delivery of apprenticeships, Ashley brings a wealth of experience in education and training to the fire and rescue sector. Ashley is on the board of NWAAN.

"I am the Senior People Development Business Partner at Alfred H Knight. I have worked in and around apprenticeships for the last 15 years, I have completed an apprenticeship, I have delivered apprenticeships as a tutor, I have managed tutors to deliver apprenticeships and I am now responsible for ensuring that Alfred H Knight employees have opportunities and the support required to complete apprenticeships across multiple business streams and multiple departments."

Alan has been involved in Apprenticeships since 1986. He has had many roles in the private, voluntary and public sector. He headed up the Apprenticeship Service in the North East of England and was a member of the senior management team at the National Apprenticeship Service. He passionately believes that apprenticeships when delivered will make a huge difference for both Employers and Individuals. Alan now supports the North East Apprenticeship Ambassador Network in promoting Apprenticeships to both Employers and Individuals across the region.