Meg’s Apprenticeship Journey at Young Gloucestershire

Meg’s Apprenticeship Journey at Young Gloucestershire

I was fortunate to be recruited as one of the first apprentices at Young Gloucestershire.

After graduating with a BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre in 2022, I spent three years working professionally in the theatre industry. In early 2025, I decided to step away from performing and pursue a career more closely aligned with my personal values and passions.

I have always had a strong interest in therapeutic intervention and mental health, shaped by my own experiences. This inspired me to explore youth work and find a career where I could make a meaningful difference by helping young people feel heard, supported and understood.

Initially, I had little understanding of what youth work or an apprenticeship would entail. Having already completed a university degree, I never expected to return to education. The idea felt daunting, and I seriously considered not attending the interview.

Now, as I approach the end of my apprenticeship, I am incredibly proud of how far I have come and the progress I have made. What began as an uncertain step has developed into a journey of personal and professional growth. Throughout this experience, I have built my confidence, knowledge, and skills base while working towards a career that aligns with my values and aspirations and genuinely means something to me as you are making a difference to the lives of young people.

A typical day at Young Gloucestershire involves supporting young people through our Therapeutic Services department, working across projects such as Link Chat, Bounce+ and Flex. Alongside managing my caseload, Fridays are dedicated to working with my apprenticeship cohort towards our qualification. This has become one of the most enjoyable parts of my journey, and over time, my cohort became like a second family.

Having passed my diploma, I am now preparing for my End-Point Assessment (EPA) and professional discussion, during which I will demonstrate my knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs). This final stage has certainly been a personal challenge, particularly in managing the uncertainty of awaiting the next steps. However, I am confident that all the hard work will prove worthwhile!

I would wholeheartedly recommend this apprenticeship to anyone passionate about supporting young people and is committed to continued learning and professional development. It provides a fantastic opportunity to gain practical experience while developing an understanding of the theory, principles and values underpinning youth work, as well as the important role it plays in society today.

Ultimately, this apprenticeship has offered so much more than gaining a qualification. It has provided the opportunity to discover a career that I am passionate about, grow in confidence and recognising the profound impact that that supporting young people can have on their own journeys. As well as recognising how my own development through the apprenticeship can help shape the support I can provide, supported with the understanding of why. For anyone considering a career in youth work, it is an invaluable opportunity to develop both the skills and understanding needed to make a difference in the lives of young people, while being supported to grow both professionally and personally.

Could your organisation benefit from a Youth Work or Safeguarding Apprentice? Or are you interested in upskilling your current staff? Email apprenticeship@youngglos.org.uk to find out more.