EDUCATION
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: APPRENTICESHIPS IN KENT
OPPORTUNITY, KNOWLEDGE AND ENDLESS DISCOVERY
COMBINING EXPERT HANDS-ON EXPERIENCES WITH VALUABLE CLASSROOM TRAINING, APPRENTICESHIPS ARE BECOMING INCREASINGLY POPULAR ACROSS THE COUNTRY FOR THEIR INCLUSIVE APPROACH TO EARN-WHILE-YOU-LEARN CAREER DEVELOPMENT.
What does an apprenticeship entail? Ranging from Level 2( GCSE) to Level 7( Master’ s Degree) qualifications, apprenticeships are widely available in an array of industries- from construction and health and social care, to business administration, digital and hospitality- and offer individuals the chance to gain a recognised qualification within a paid role designed for personal growth and professional development.
How To Get Started: Here in our education-rich county, there are many ways to begin your apprenticeship journey. A good place to start is with a dedicated training provider such as Kent Training & Apprenticeships( KT & A)( kenttrainingandapprenticeships. co. uk) who connects local employers with budding apprentices. You can also explore and apply for opportunities through a national portal such as gov. uk / apply-apprenticeship. It’ s important to remember when searching for an apprenticeship to look for environments that align with your interests and skills, while keeping an open mind to new experiences that will allow you to grow and flourish.
SIDEWAYS ACADEMY CELEBRATING THE STORIES OF insideKENT PUBLISHER SIDEWAYS MEDIA’ S VERY OWN APPRENTICES
“ Thirteen years ago, I stumbled upon an opportunity that would change my life forever when I saw an advertisement for an apprenticeship at Sideways Media. I didn’ t know it at the time but I was about to embark on a professional journey which would include one day a week of education, whilst learning on the job in a room full of experience which moulded me into the person I am today. Apprenticeships are more than just‘ work with a side of education’, it’ s about guidance from senior staff, whilst observing and listening in an environment that you will one day have an impact on- this is relevant to whatever role you wish to pursue in any industry.”
Alex Perseval, Sales Apprentice to Senior Sales Account Manager
“ From my very first week as an inspired intern wanting to be a part of something extraordinary, to beginning my Business Administration apprenticeship and discovering my strengths within the editorial team, my journey as a Sideways apprentice was packed with personal growth and positive development.
I am thrilled to now be a part of the insideKENT team on a permanent basis as a Features & Content Assistant following the completion of my apprenticeship last year and have great anticipation for what the future holds.”
Mia Chapman Business Admin Apprentice to Features & Content Assistant
“ I always knew I wanted to pursue an apprenticeship to gain invaluable experience and knowledge through hands-on learning. Sideways Media immediately piqued my interest, and I was fortunate enough to be offered the role of Digital Marketing Apprentice- I have loved every second since.
Being an apprentice has benefited me more than I imagined. I’ ve gained vital industry skills, built confidence and worked with incredible professionals. From networking with Kent businesses to learning all things digital and content creation, this experience has given me a strong foundation for my career, and I’ m excited for what’ s ahead.”
Sophie Shorter, Digital Marketing Apprentice
SIDEWAYS MEDIA CELEBRATES APPRENTICESHIP SUCCESS!
Recognising the incredible apprentices, employers and those who go above and beyond to champion uplifting opportunities across the county, the recently expanded, county-wide Kent Apprenticeship Awards( KAA’ s) is an excellent celebration of apprenticeship achievements.
At the 2025 East Kent Apprenticeship Awards, Mia Chapman was crowned Apprentice of the Year- awarded for her passion and growth within the Business Administration category. With iK editor and Sideways MD Samantha Ready recognised in the Apprentice Employer of the Year category, commended for her
inspiring efforts in creating opportunities for aspiring young creators..
The closing date for entries to The Kent Apprenticeship Awards 2026 is Friday 20 March. For more information visit ka-awards. co. uk
180 • www. insidekent. co. uk