2012
Alex Holt
Over the past eight years HND student Alex Holt has been employed by Cobham plc, one of the UK’s largest aerospace companies. He completed a four-year advanced apprenticeship to train as an engineer and specialised in radar technology and electronics. His job has taken him around the world configuring, repairing and installing radar display equipment for the RAF and other civil airports, and he was keen to pursue his studies.
“My employer recognised my potential and encouraged me to compete for the Apprentice of the Year Award for south west England. I entered the competition and won the highest award of overall apprentice of the year for 2007/08. Thanks to this my employer invited me to join its prestigious graduate scheme and complete a degree!”
Alex was looking for a part-time course in business studies which would fit in with his work commitments. “I had heard that Southampton Solent University was highly regarded for its business school; most of Cobham’s apprentices attend Solent to obtain their HNC/D qualifications, so naturally it was my university of choice." Alex is currently studying for his HND but plans to continue onto the BA (Hons) course.
“As a part-time student, I really enjoy the advanced level of learning and the quality of the facilities such as the library, IT and work areas. I go home every week with something new, and the best part is that I really can apply what I’ve learned during the week to my day job; it fits perfectly!
“I have learnt so much in such a short time, and the way the course is organised means that it is easier to digest. There are busy times too of course, but there has to be some work in all the play.”
Alex was recently selected to become one of 25 members of the Young Ambassador Network for Apprenticeships - all hand picked as examples of the very best, and most inspiring apprentices in England. They are all confident, successful and incredibly ambitious.
Young Ambassadors will advise the National Apprenticeship Service on apprenticeships from the apprentice’s perspective, have profiles on the Apprenticeship website and will be put forward for relevant media interviews. This provides a great opportunity for them to build their career profile, while ensuring apprentices' views are taken into account when developing services for apprentices.
During Alex’s time on the Young Ambassador Network, he will be working closely with regional training providers, chambers of commerce, MPs and press. His work has already begun with Solent University to promote apprenticeships and develop suitable progression routes into higher education.