My first month as a Digital Essex apprentice

If you had told me a few years ago that I would be back in education, I would have been horrified – but this was probably one of my better ideas.

My lack of experience was something that had always stumped me in my job search, so when I began applying for roles, it quickly became apparent that an apprenticeship was the best way to go. One interview later, I started my new role as a digital programme apprentice at Essex County Council.

My first day was predictably nerve-wracking, and the long commute didn't help as I spent most of it imagining all the things that could go wrong. But once I arrived and met my manager, got my picture taken and received my laptop, stepping into the office felt like a significant accomplishment. I even got given a Digital Essex hoodie, which I'm proudly sporting below!

Abi in her Digital Essex hoodie

New experiences

The first day turned out to be lovely. During lunch, I discovered new places to eat in this previously unknown city I had ventured into. We ended up getting a bagel from a place just outside of County Hall and I’m now obsessed with them, so much so that I’ve had one every time I’ve been into the office since!

While I have the option to work in the office, I soon realised how much I actually enjoy working from home. I can wear my comfortable clothes, and my cat can greet me whenever he wants. I also have the freedom to snack and stretch my legs.

During the first month of my apprenticeship, I was delighted to be invited to help with the graphic design side of things. Initially, I was tasked with creating a draft for a designer, but soon I became the designer myself – which was a welcome surprise. This experience has been invaluable, as I have acquired new skills in the field and have developed a newfound passion for creating posters and leaflets. I have learned the importance of receiving feedback and constructive criticism, as it has allowed me to refine my work and produce better-executed designs.

I also put my passion for video editing to good use. I helped create a video about the team, using clips we filmed on an office day. Over the past month, I’ve learned about branding and how it's conveyed in various media forms, including the posters and leaflets I talked about earlier.

The LEGO® in libraries leaflet created by Abi

Growing my confidence

This being my first job, I’ve had to adjust from having zero to many meetings in a week. As an awkward person, this has been hard, but I have tried to use the opportunity to grow my confidence, which has already started working in little ways. I've also been learning a lot about how the team and the council work, which can be overwhelming at times – but my manager understands and is incredibly supportive. The work culture allows me to learn new software and information more quickly than I expected, which keeps me motivated for what's to come.

Soon enough, I attended my very first apprenticeship lesson, where I had the pleasure of meeting my tutor for the first time. I was thrilled by how friendly and enthusiastic he was about the subject matter. In my opinion, feeling at ease while learning a new subject can greatly enhance the learning experience. It makes the lesson more approachable, and you're more inclined to participate and engage, even if you tend to be reserved in that regard.

Next month, I'm excited to be involved in even more creative endeavours, possibly dipping my toe into copywriting, and using my photography skills in a professional setting.

I couldn't have asked for a better way to start my new job, career, and way of life. I can't wait to learn even more during my time here.

Follow Abi's journey as she works towards her apprenticeship in marketing. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.