When Joe left school, he thought he already had his future mapped out. After completing his GCSEs at Audenshaw High School, he went on to college to study psychology, biology, religion and sport and exercise science. His plan was clear: go to university and train as a physiotherapist. He even secured a place at the University of Salford. However, something didn’t feel right.
Rethinking the University Route
Joe admits that by the end of college, his appetite for traditional classroom learning had faded.
“I just couldn’t see myself sitting in university for another three or four years doing constant exams and revision. Classroom learning at college took a lot out of me & I knew that I wanted to do something different.”
At the same time, the idea of earning, gaining real-world experience and avoiding student debt became increasingly appealing. He began exploring alternatives.
That’s when an apprenticeship opportunity with the Growth Company became available, a Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship within the marketing team. That decision changed everything.
Learning in the Real World
Joe joined GC as an Events Apprentice in 2018, supporting business engagement activity across Greater Manchester.
“The role threw me in at the deep end, but in a good way,” he says.
Moving straight from college into a professional office environment helped Joe develop something that can’t always be taught in a classroom: confidence, communication skills and workplace professionalism.
He learned how to build relationships, manage responsibility and contribute meaningfully to a team, all while building a portfolio of evidence to complete his qualification.
Expanding His Network
Joe is clear about one thing: applying for opportunities isn’t always enough.
“Expanding your network is really important. Having conversations, asking questions, getting myself known - that made a big difference for me.”
As his apprenticeship came to an end, an opportunity arose within the digital marketing team. Because Joe had already built strong relationships and demonstrated his capability in a real working environment, he was well positioned to step up. He secured a role as a Digital Marketing Executive.
Building Transferable Skills
Joe chose Business Administration deliberately.
“I wanted something transferable. Every business needs admin skills - so I knew this qualification would give me options.”
That foundation allowed him to move confidently into marketing, where he developed expertise in:
-
Website management
-
Reporting and analytics
-
Campaign performance monitoring
But he didn’t stop there. Recognising he needed broader marketing experience, Joe later moved into a more diverse marketing role supporting multiple employment services. This allowed him to develop skills in PR, communications, social media and content creation.
From there, he joined the newly formed Energy Innovation Agency’s team - helping to market the service from the ground up.
And today? Joe is now Marketing Manager for GC Education and Skills.
Own Your Future
Joe’s journey shows there isn’t just one “correct” route after leaving school.
“Once I realised I could earn, gain a qualification and avoid debt at the same time, it made so much sense to me. But more than that, I was building real experience which would give me an edge on those at University.”
For National Careers Week 2026, Joe’s story is a reminder that owning your future isn’t about following one set path. It’s about making informed decisions, recognising your strengths, building your network and taking opportunities when they come.