Apprentice success stories
Apprenticeships at Coventry University Group offer an insightful blend of work-based experience and academic learning.
Hear directly from apprentices like Jennifer, Zayn, and Olivia, who have gained critical skills, professional networks, and hands-on experience to advance their careers in diverse fields such as engineering, project management, and sustainability.
Jennifer
Sustainability Business Specialist MSc
- ASDA Stores Limited
"It has been great to meet other ESG professionals outside of fashion and textiles, it is insightful to understand the common challenges that exist and is great networking. I have enjoyed the challenge the course has given me, it is pretty academic so has pushed me to learn new skills which I do not currently have or actively use in role.
I do believe that there is a tremendous amount of growth in this sector cross industry so I do believe this stands me in a strong position for future roles and progression within the sector."
Zayn
Building Services Design Engineer
- Schneider Electric
"I was driven down the apprenticeship route from my young teens as I felt a pure non-technical education route was not a viable option for my future. As well as this the financial aspect appealed to me as I would rather have my learning fees covered so I would not have to take out loans to fund my further education. The apprenticeship programme is well rounded, it allows me to maintain a good balance between my work duties and the degree learning responsibilities.
The support offered between both fundamental aspects of the apprenticeship is vital as they both work hand in hand to ensure efficient report keeping. The role has me constantly engaged and allowing to improve myself from an interpersonal to technical level. Remember, an apprenticeship is a commitment to learning and growth, so it's important to be dedicated and open to new experiences. It's a fantastic way to start your career journey!"
Olivia
Project Management
- Manufacturing Technology Centre
"Coming out of college, I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted my career ambitions to be, so I explored different pathways through career fairs, educational workshops and alumni presentations. Through this, I came across degree apprenticeships; more specifically, placements in the project profession.
A fully funded university degree with the simultaneous development of work-based skills and salary made it an appealing choice. Additionally, project management offers so much opportunity for development and progression, with transferrable soft skills laying the foundations of business knowledge and abilities, which leaves plenty of leeway for future career preferences, such as industry or role change."
Mickey
Assembly Engineer
- Ford Motor Company
"I completed a 4-year Ford apprenticeship specialising in Vehicle Mechanics. This enabled me to have an exciting and rewarding engineering career with Ford. I recognised an opportunity to start another 4-year Ford apprenticeship, this time specialising in management and leadership.
As this is a Degree apprenticeship, I believe it will help me to mature as an engineer and help me to add value for Ford, opening up new opportunities along the way. If you’re considering doing an apprenticeship- do it! There are various support mechanisms in place to suit your personal circumstances and your employer will appreciate the high-quality skill set you will develop."
Holly
MSc Physiotherapy and Leadership
- South Warwickshire University Foundation Trust
"Following a 10-year career as a performer, in 2009 I became an assistant physiotherapist and went on to complete the foundation degree apprenticeship course at Coventry University. I then felt confident that I had the skills to qualify as a Physiotherapist, which is why I applied for the MSc apprenticeship course.
Better Futures Apprenticeships supported me when I needed advice on support during difficult times I was going through personally, helping me to navigate studying, working and family life. Lectures are taught in various ways, using simulations, latest technologies and engaging the group with discussion and practical tasks.
This apprenticeship will allow me to qualify as a physiotherapist, utilising the work experience I already have as an assistant practitioner. It has given me confidence in my abilities and the level of knowledge needed to be a confident and effective physiotherapist. I have enjoyed studying with like-minded people and being challenged."
Zena
Nursing Associate
- South Warwickshire University Foundation Trust, Warwick hospital
"As an older adult, I had worked all of my life and did not want to sacrifice a salary, so I decided on the apprenticeship route. I have found that working whilst learning is more proactive than full-time studying.
Better Futures Apprenticeships has supported me in every way possible, from the lectures and skills classes I attend to accessing the library. The lecturers are all approachable and will help you in any way possible. They are a positive and proactive bunch of tutors whom I have enjoyed spending time with over the last two years.
I want to specialise in dementia or end of life care and have had a lot of exposure to both areas. I like to have the “hands-on” experience at the same time as learning the theory side of it, so I can put it all together."
Employer Success stories
Coventry University Group partners with leading organisations to deliver apprenticeship programmes that foster talent and develop industry-specific skills.
Explore how employers like Ford, Schneider Electric, and Coventry City Council benefit from apprenticeships that drive workforce capability, improve service quality, and build a future-ready workforce.
Ruth
Early Careers Manager - Schneider Electric
"Apprentices improve our products, service quality and improve our productivity. We can already see how our Apprentices are growing their careers within Schneider and how well they are performing in their role.
It has been a pleasure to develop a partnership with Coventry University in our apprenticeship programme as part of our Early Careers Strategy. Regular collaboration with the engineering team has provided our apprentices with a positive experience which includes, valuable personal support sessions while tailoring academic activities based on the Apprentices requirements.
Coventry University shares our approach to developing industry skills to build a workforce of the future."
John
Business Operations Manager - Ford
"Ford in Europe has a proud history of fostering and nurturing talent. Evolving workforce capability remains crucial in delivery of market-leading products and services with the fast pace of change seen in the automotive and mobility industries. Winning in the fields of connected vehicle technology, autonomous vehicle technologies and electrification requires a strong commitment to continual development of cutting-edge workforce skills.
We are excited to work with SEATS and one of their primary academic providers Coventry University to deliver apprenticeships and have enrolled 40 Ford employees on Level 6 Chartered Manager and L7 Senior Leader/MBA programmes in last year. We are also working on developing other apprenticeship opportunities for our employees with them."
Contact us
- Telephone: +44 (0)24 7765 4960
- Email: apprenticeships@coventry.ac.uk
- Register your interest
