As A Level results day arrives, thousands of young people across the country will be deciding what comes next. For many, university is presented as the natural next step. But for Connected Voice apprentice Bradley Moss, a different path has proven to be the right one.
At just 20 years old, Bradley is a year into his Business Administration apprenticeship as Apprentice Data and Website Support Officer, helping to manage and develop Our Gateshead – a website that connects local people with events, activities, services and support across the borough.
Looking back, he says university was never something that appealed to him:
"I never wanted to go to uni, even though it was very much pushed on me by my sixth form. I'm much better with a hands-on approach. I find experiences better to learn from than just learning from a PowerPoint.”
Like many young people, Bradley didn't understand what apprenticeships could offer.
"When I thought of an apprenticeship, I just thought of construction. No one had really taught me otherwise. I had no idea I could do a Business Administration course."
“Having the opportunity to work and learn was the perfect combination for me."
It was only after doing his own research that he realised apprenticeships existed in a wide range of sectors – including charities.
"I was baffled when I saw the opportunity to do an apprenticeship at a charity, it just hadn’t occurred to me before that it was possible.”
That discovery opened the door to a career path that combined practical experience, learning and the chance to make a real difference.
When Bradley started his apprenticeship, he hoped to gain workplace experience and develop new skills. What he didn't expect was how much it would boost his confidence.
"I really lacked confidence. In school it was fine because I grew up with everyone there, but outside of that I didn't have great interpersonal skills."
Today, the transformation is clear.
"When I started here, I was really quiet. I'd have lunch at my desk on my own and wouldn't really mix in team meetings. Now, a year in, you wouldn't believe that. I sit and have lunch with everyone every day and in team meetings I'm quite vocal."
Alongside growing in confidence, Bradley has developed practical skills in data management, spreadsheets and digital systems - skills that are increasingly valuable in any workplace.
One of the biggest surprises for Bradley has been the impact he has made.
"I thought as an apprentice I'd kind of be in the corner. I didn't think I'd have that much impact until I finished my apprenticeship."
Instead, he has become a key part of the team, taking responsibility for monitoring and updating Our Gateshead, managing enquiries and supporting local organisations.
Recently, he visited an organisation he had supported through the platform and received feedback that left a lasting impression.
"They told me their building now gets around 1,000 people a week through the doors for community activities. It definitely wasn't all because of me, but they insisted I'd had a big hand in helping that happen. That felt amazing."
For Bradley, moments like this have shown him the value of the work he does.
"Growing up, I always wanted to do something that helped people. Being here, I'm seeing the effect that my role and the whole organisation have on people's daily lives. It's incredible."
A common concern for young people considering apprenticeships is whether they will receive enough support while balancing work and learning.
Bradley's experience has been overwhelmingly positive.
"I've felt very supported, especially within the workplace. My mentor is always there if I have questions, my line manager checks in regularly, and my tutor makes sure I'm keeping on track with my apprenticeship work."
The result is a learning environment where he feels valued and trusted.
"I've been given a lot more responsibilities the further I've gotten through the apprenticeship. One of the team even said the other day that I'm very much valued. It feels like they need me."
As students consider their options this summer, Bradley has a simple message: don't assume university is the only route available.
"Do your own research because schools aren't teaching enough about apprenticeships. In school it was all about university. There was no real support for any other path."
His advice is to think about how you learn best and choose the path that suits you, rather than the one others expect you to take.
"If you can't see yourself going to university because of the way you learn, I'd absolutely recommend an apprenticeship. Everything is completely different. I have friends who go to university and my day-to-day is completely different to theirs, in a good way."
For Bradley, choosing an apprenticeship has provided skills, confidence, real work experience and a sense of purpose. As A Level results day arrives, his story is a reminder that success doesn't follow a single route, and that for some people, earning, learning and making a difference from day one can be the perfect next step.
Ready to take that next step? View our apprenticeship vacancies.