Employer Archives - Access Training Access Training

“It all started with a Business Admin apprenticeship…” – and look where it led.

When Harriet joined Access Training in September 2020 at just 19, she could hardly have imagined the journey ahead.

Starting as a Business Administration Apprentice, Harriet quickly demonstrated determination, professionalism, and a keen desire to grow. Today, she is a full-time Trainer, teaching the very course she once completed herself; a true example of how an apprenticeship can be the pathway for a thriving career.

A Pathway for Growth

The Business Administration Apprenticeship at Access Training is designed to equip learners with the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed to excel in a professional environment. Over 16 months, apprentices develop core competencies including decision-making, communication, IT skills, planning, project management, and a solid understanding of business policies and processes. Delivery is a blend of on-the-job training and day-release workshops at Access Training’s Gateshead centre, providing both practical experience and structured learning.

For employers, the programme offers an opportunity to nurture talent, with apprentices taking on roles such as Administration Assistant, Office Trainee, or Executive Assistant, while developing transferable skills that benefit any business. Assessment includes a mix of portfolio-based interviews, project presentations, and knowledge tests, ensuring that apprentices graduate ready to contribute confidently in the workplace.

From Learner to Leader

Harriet’s journey exemplifies the possibilities this apprenticeship opens up. Her early responsibilities included advertising apprenticeship vacancies, updating records, and pre-screening applicants – tasks that honed her attention to detail and organisational skills. After completing her Level 3 apprenticeship in January 2022, Harriet transitioned into a permanent Recruitment Administrator role, where she continued to support learners and develop a passion for teaching.

This passion led her to undertake a Level 3 Assessor Award and join Access Training’s Skills Coach team. In this role, Harriet provided one-to-one support, guided learners through assessments, and helped them prepare for End Point Assessments. Her hands-on experience with the programme she had once completed gave her a unique perspective, allowing her to offer practical strategies and empathetic guidance to her cohort.

Now Teaching the Course She Once Took

Today, Harriet is a qualified Trainer and is completing her Level 5 Learning and Skills Teacher Apprenticeship to further enhance her expertise. She manages her own caseload, delivers classes, and provides tailored support to learners, all while contributing to the development of a new Specialist Teaching and Learning Assistant Level 5 Apprenticeship, set to launch in 2026. Harriet is also enrolled in the Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of Special Educational Needs, ensuring she can support learners with diverse needs effectively.

Her career progression has been rapid yet grounded in hard work and commitment and her story shows that apprenticeships are not just about learning a role; they can ignite a passion for lifelong development.

Why Employers Should Consider a Business Admin Apprentice

Harriet’s journey also highlights the value of apprenticeships for employers. Investing in apprentices allows businesses to nurture talent from the ground up, developing employees who are loyal, skilled, and capable of progressing into leadership or specialist roles. Harriet’s transformation from apprentice to trainer illustrates the potential for apprentices to grow within a company, bringing first-hand experience, fresh ideas, and a deep understanding of organisational culture.

Access Training has been delivering high-quality apprenticeships for over 40 years, and is one of only 13 providers in the UK recognised as an Expert Training Provider by the Department for Education. With modern facilities, blended learning approaches, and a focus on learner outcomes, Access ensures that apprentices like Harriet have the support and opportunities they need to succeed.

What You’ll Learn as a Business Admin Apprentice

The programme covers a wide range of transferable skills, including:

Decision-making and problem solving
Communication and interpersonal skills
IT proficiency and digital skills
Quality assurance and attention to detail
Planning, organisation, and project management

Apprentices also gain knowledge of business fundamentals, policies, and procedures, and may complete functional skills at Level 2 in Maths and English if required. The structured training, alongside real-world experience, equips learners to thrive in administrative roles and beyond.

Watch Harriet’s story here

From Apprentice to Trainer – Your Journey Could Start Here

Harriet’s story is a testament to what’s possible through the Business Administration Apprenticeship. She began as a learner, progressed through multiple roles, and is now shaping the next generation of apprentices – proving that it all started with a Business Admin apprenticeship.

Whether you are an employer looking to develop talent, or an aspiring apprentice seeking a career with growth opportunities, the programme at Access Training offers a structured, supportive, and forward-thinking path. With rolling intakes and comprehensive support, your journey could start just like Harriet’s and take you further than you ever imagined.

More than just a training provider…

Gateshead-based Access Training provides upskilling courses and apprenticeships in HR, project management, team leading and management, accountancy, business administration, learning & skills teaching, and fire, emergency & security systems.

We have been delivering training programmes for businesses and individuals across the North East for over 40 years. We have a genuine interest in the success of the companies we work with and the people we train, and we aim to provide a personal, bespoke service.

Get in touch

Rowen Group

Torgersens Chartered Accountants

Making Digital Accessible – Access All Areas

Back to Leadership & Management

Leading the Way

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, vel ei quis hinc autem, omittam nominati imperdiet mel cu. Et possit theophrastus cum, an mollis electram instructior nam, amet ferri aliquam quo ei. Ei simul aliquid electram qui. Eius atqui nam eu. Cum ei liber copiosae instructior, singulis molestiae scripserit no pro, ei iusto ridens officiis usu. Ei dictas aliquando nam, sed argumentum repudiandae eu. Vidit exerci in eos, facilis omittam nec eu.