Olivia’s Story: From Retail Work to Degree Apprenticeship
Olivia left school with strong grades and ambition, but limited guidance on the routes available beyond university. After an early setback, she discovered LTSB and secured an entry-level role in professional services. Now settled, she’s enrolled in a degree apprenticeship and thriving in her job!
Held Back by Limited Career Advice
Olivia always felt lucky to be from Merseyside. “Growing up here is amazing – there’s a lovely sense of community, and everyone knows everyone.”
Her parents raised her with the belief that hard work would lead to success. But as Olivia got older, she became increasingly aware that many of her peers were being held back simply because of where they came from.
At school, she got good grades, but the most she ever received in the way of career advice was a 10-minute meeting for those who didn’t want to go to university.
She recalls, “I knew that I didn’t want to attend uni, but I wasn’t sure of what other avenues were accessible to me.” Her teachers were supportive, but her school simply didn’t have adequate finances to provide additional support.
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Leaving School with High Hopes
Olivia still trusted that if she put enough effort into applying to apprenticeships, she would be able to find a good job. However, after being rejected from the one she’d set her sights on, she found herself out of education, working in ASDA and with no idea of what to do next.
“I was at a point where I was so excited to leave school and succeed, and I had been met with disappointment and unsettlement.”
Finding LTSB: And Securing a Role!
Then, she found LTSB. Within a month of completing the programme, Olivia had interviewed for and secured an entry-level position with RSM. “I genuinely don’t think I would have got this job if it wasn’t for LTSB. They helped me learn how to present myself professionally yet still have my personality.”
Three months into her 12-month temporary contract, RSM were so impressed with her performance that they made her a permanent member of staff.
Upskilling Through Degree Apprenticeship
Less than a year in, they’re investing in her training and development by funding a university degree to do alongside her job. She’s even working on a project where she’s working to develop outreach partnerships with schools like hers to share opportunities with more young people from her background.
“None of this would have been possible if it wasn’t for LTSB – they have changed my life. The people who work at LTSB are so lovely and a genuine community that stick with you even after you finish the bootcamp. This was probably the best part of the whole process – I feel like I wouldn’t be the person I am now without them.”
