Former Ashgate Hospicecare apprentice Charlotte Gratton tells us about her apprenticeship journey.

"I was a creative student at Lady Manners School, I achieved A Levels in subjects English Literature, Theatre Studies and ICT. I felt due to my predictions and grades of B, C, C I was pushed towards applying for University, but as a practical learner I didn’t feel that this was the right route for me.

"I organised the Sixth Form Prom and did my work experience in the Events Department at Chatsworth House, both confirmed to me that I wanted to pursue a career in Events Management.

"I wanted to gain as much as experience as possible to give me an insight into the industry and learn how to plan a variety of events. I was open minded to how I would gain this experience and planned on potentially progressing to University further down the line.

"I stumbled across an apprenticeship on the National Apprenticeship’s Website for an Events Apprentice at Ashgate Hospicecare. The idea of an apprenticeship seemed ideal, I could gain experience planning events whilst gaining a qualification and earning a salary.

"I left school in the Summer of 2013 and began my apprenticeship at Ashgate Hospicecare that September. It was daunting entering a workplace, however the hospice is such a friendly and warm place to work I instantly settled in and got stuck into my role assisting with organising a range of fundraising events. Being in an office environment boosted by confidence and communication skills. I built relationships with colleagues and hospice supporters, whilst completing an NVQ Level 2 in Business and Administration.

"I felt so lucky to have this position and to be able to earn money whilst learning. My apprenticeship was based full time at the hospice, and my tutor came to visit me monthly and set assignments. I liked the independence of being able to manage my time between my job role and NVQ work. At certain times, especially the summer there were lots of events to help organise, so I had to plan and prioritise my workload.

"My apprenticeship was a 1 year contract, and although there was no position available specific to events, the role of Marketing Assistant had been advertised as my apprenticeship came to an end. I enjoyed being part of the fundraising team and had learnt marketing skills during my apprenticeship. I applied and was very grateful to be successful in this role.

"In October 2014, the post of Events Fundraiser became available. This role held the responsibility of organising and managing all the hospice led events, supporting people taking on fundraising challenges and also managing the Events Apprentice. This was my dream role, I applied, and was over the moon to get the position.

"I went on to redevelop the portfolio of events, in particular the Midnight Walk which is now the successful Sparkle Night Walk and this year attracted over 2,600 walkers and raised £202,500! Ashgate Hospicecare have supported my professional development and enrolled me to the Institute of Fundraising where I gained my Certificate in Fundraising.

"I have recently got a new position within the Fundraising Team of Partnership Executive and will continue to build relationships to raise funds to help patients and families in need of hospice care. I am grateful to Ashgate Hospicecare for supporting me in my career and giving me the opportunities to progress."