Apprenticeships have the ability to boost confidence, improve problem-solving skills and build successful careers – that’s the view of two Telford College apprentices who are thriving in their roles at a local food manufacturing company.

Lillie Bell is a digital marketing apprentice at Bridge Cheese, where Josh Dey is an engineering apprentice.

The company, based at Stafford Park, supplies cheese and dairy products to the food manufacturing and service sectors.

Lillie said: “Every day is different working in marketing as I do work internally and externally. I plan staff events and post on our social media channels and more.

“The apprenticeship has helped me grow by letting me have on the job experience and building professional relationships with my co-workers, external suppliers and other contacts.

“I wish more people knew about the learning process for both on and off the job as off the job can be training, learning at college and is 25% of the week, every week, and on the job consists of my day-to-day tasks.

Josh said: “There’s always something new – that’s what I enjoy about my apprenticeship. I complete job sheets at the end of every day to keep track of everything that I’ve done from fixing the machinery to building new offices and changing blades on the machines.

“I can attempt to solve more problems and try new tasks independently but I also know I have the support from my manager. My confidence has improved a lot, as I have come out of my shell more and have some very good friends at work.”

He added: “Learning the theory at college behind what you do is great – but getting to put it into practice in a work environment really solidifies the knowledge.

“Being with Bridge Cheese for four years and growing with a business is great as you see the improvements along the way and are a part of an exciting journey.”