As the PR Apprentice at Strawberry, Courtney Wood’s day is extremely varied. She can be found doing anything from general administration work to working on Strawberry’s client’s social media accounts, writing articles and writing blog posts for clients.

Before finding her feet in her role at Strawberry, Courtney attended St Mary’s College where she achieved 10 A*-C GCSE grades. From there, Courtney went on to the sixth form to study, but soon found that this wasn’t the right option for her. Whilst applying for jobs, Courtney came across Apprenticeships through the Connexions Services.

“We didn’t really get told anything about apprenticeships which is a shame! I was always aware of College and Sixth Form but it would have been great if I had known more about Apprenticeships.”

Courtney Wood, PR Apprentice at Strawberry

Strawberry has taken on numerous Apprentices from Hull Business Training Centre - many of which have stayed in employment long after their Apprenticeship has finished. The Managing Director of Strawberry, Jonathan Leafe, explains that the reason they invest in Apprentices is because the scheme provides an “excellent supply of young, enthusiastic staff for future growth.”

“We actively mentor them, increase their skill and confidence levels by giving them responsibility and real work to do. Often, they arrive here timid and unsure. After a year, more often than not, they're confident, have a high level of expertise and a career focus. On the job training is superior to most other forms. Learning from experts in the field will give them skills they'd never learn in the classroom.”

Jonathan Leafe, Managing Director at Strawberry

Before starting her job at Strawberry, Courtney didn’t know much about PR but has learnt a lot at her time at Strawberry and is really enjoying it! Courtney is thrilled that she decided to do an Apprenticeship as it has provided her with work experience, qualifications and a lot more confidence which she plans to continue to develop and build on.

Courtney had this to say to those considering doing an Apprenticeship;

“Just to go for it! Often people just go to College/Sixth Form because it’s the simplest option – just like continuing on from school (I know that’s why I went!) but having an Apprenticeship is miles better! You get qualifications, work experience and a wage! If I didn’t have my Apprenticeship I wouldn’t be able to do the things I do if I had chosen another route.”