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.

With over 15 years of experience in education, I am passionate about delivering high-quality training to the staff of Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, where I have been working since January 2022. As a training and assessment officer, I design and facilitate learning programs including CMI, TAQA and apprenticeships. I use adaptive learning techniques to tailor online and face to face sessions to the needs and abilities of each learner. I have both level 3 (assessor) and level 4 (IQA) qualifications in TAQA and have experience in quality assurance, EQA and Ofsted inspections.
Previously, I was head of Law and Business Studies at Castell Alun High School for eight years, where I developed and implemented engaging and relevant curricula, and mentored and supported other teachers.

"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.