I first heard about the Workplace Degree programme through Petroc, where I studied A levels. I loved the idea of working full time and earning my own money, whilst gaining experience in the workplace and towards a degree.
It was a massive step for me, especially with all my friends heading off to University whilst I was staying at home, but it was definitely the best decision. I love it because I can still go to swimming club and surf life saving at Woolacombe and spend time with my family which I wouldn’t have been able to do if I moved away.
I have now fully found my feet within the marketing department. Everyone is so friendly which really makes coming to work fun. Even though I have spent the last 12 months in marketing, my role has grown hugely and I now even manage my own projects and provide customer service to clients on the site. It’s great working in a company like Applegate because there are so many different roles where you can gain ample experience and the fact that I can apply what I am learning at work to college makes it so much easier to study.
The ‘First Rung’ housing scheme also grabbed my attention straightaway and I have already started saving for a deposit on a house. When I tell my friends this who are at University they can’t believe that I am able to do this through my employer whilst they are fully in their overdrafts.
It's crazy to think that I am already in my second year of the programme, and by the time I finish I’ll have enough money for a deposit on a house, a Business Management degree, 2 management qualifications and 5 years of work experience.
I’m looking forward to my next 4 years at Applegate and at college, every day really is a school day!