Apprenticeships helping Lancashire young people thrive

As employers continue to face skills shortages in areas such as digital marketing, IT and data, apprenticeship providers say more young people are discovering alternatives to traditional education routes.

For many, apprenticeships offer the chance to earn while they learn, gain hands-on experience and take their first steps into the workplace.

NowSkills, which works with employers and apprentices across the North West, says confidence is often one of the biggest barriers facing young people when they first begin their career journey.

Many apprentices arrive with little workplace experience and can feel uncertain about stepping into professional environments for the first time.

The organisation says supporting young people goes beyond technical training, with tutors helping learners build confidence, communication skills and workplace knowledge alongside industry qualifications.

One young person to benefit is Holly, who completed a Content Creator apprenticeship in 2025, achieving a distinction before progressing into a more senior role with her employer.

Holly (Image: Jessica Budworth)

Reflecting on her experience, she said: “Completing the Content Creator apprenticeship with NowSkills has been a really positive experience for both my personal and professional development.

“The tutors were incredibly supportive and always pushed me to achieve my best, which helped me grow in confidence and develop my skills.

“The apprenticeship gave me valuable hands-on experience and prepared me for moving into the working world.

“Thanks to the skills and experience I gained, I’m now in a role that I really enjoy and feel much more confident about my future career and the opportunities ahead.”