It’s Never Too Late to Learn: Kathleen Sillitoe’s Apprenticeship Journey
At 49 years old and after more than two decades working at B&Q’s Llanelli store, Kathleen Sillitoe never imagined she would become a passionate advocate for learning and apprenticeships.
Like many adults considering a return to education, Kathleen initially doubted whether she could succeed. The prospect of studying again after so many years felt daunting. However, with encouragement from her employer and support from Cambrian Training Company (CTC), she decided to take the first step and enrol on a Level 2 Customer Service Apprenticeship.
That decision proved life changing.
Building Skills and Confidence
Through her apprenticeship, Kathleen was able to continue working while developing new knowledge and skills that could be applied immediately in the workplace. What began as a single qualification soon sparked a passion for learning and personal development.
After successfully completing her Level 2 Customer Service Apprenticeship, Kathleen progressed to further qualifications in Retail Management and Leadership and Management. She also achieved Essential Skills qualifications in English, Digital Literacy and Application of Number.
The qualifications helped her strengthen key workplace skills, including customer communication, organisation, prioritising workloads and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
But for Kathleen, the greatest achievement was something less tangible.
“I never imagined I’d complete one apprenticeship, let alone several,” said Kathleen. “The support I received made all the difference.”
Supported Every Step of the Way
A key factor in Kathleen’s success has been the support she received from her managers at B&Q and from Cambrian Training Company’s Training Officer, Christine Grayson.
Their encouragement helped her overcome self-doubt and develop confidence in her own abilities. As her confidence grew, so did her willingness to embrace new challenges and opportunities.
Kathleen’s apprenticeship journey has not only benefited her personally but has also inspired others around her. After hearing about her experiences, seven colleagues have taken the first steps towards starting their own apprenticeships.
Her story demonstrates how learning can have a positive ripple effect throughout a workplace, encouraging others to invest in their own development and career progression.
The Power of Learning at Any Age
For Kathleen, apprenticeships have shown that learning is not limited by age or career stage. Instead, they provide an opportunity for people at any point in their working lives to gain new skills, build confidence and unlock their potential.
She has a simple message for anyone wondering whether they are capable of taking on an apprenticeship:
“If I can do it, anyone can with a supportive manager.”
Now considering a Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship in Management, Kathleen continues to look ahead and embrace new opportunities for growth and development.
Unlocking Future Potential Through Learning
Kathleen’s story is a powerful reminder that apprenticeships are not just for young people starting their careers. They can also provide experienced employees with the opportunity to learn, progress and achieve more than they thought possible.
For Adult Learners’ Week, Kathleen’s journey highlights the life-changing impact of work-based learning. Whether your goal is to gain confidence, develop new skills, progress at work or try something completely new, Kathleen’s experience shows that it is never too late to start learning and discover what you are capable of achieving.
