You’re offline. This is a read only version of the page.
Discover detailed information about our courses and how our unique blend of resources will equip you to successfully complete your qualification and achieve your career goals.
Unlock your full potential with our FREE resource, packed with top tips to enhance every study session. Whether you're juggling work, family, or other commitments, these invaluable insights will empower you to study smarter, not harder.
Meet Libby, a vibrant individual with a passion for connecting with people. Before embarking on her marketing career, Libby wore many hats, including running her own businesses in makeup and baking. Her entrepreneurial spirit eventually led her to join AO, where she discovered an opportunity to grow professionally through Professional Academy’s apprenticeship programme.
Libby’s diverse background in small business ownership gave her a unique perspective on customer engagement and creativity. However, she had no formal marketing experience when she started. “I had no expectations of the course but am really enjoying it. I have learnt a lot and built my confidence,” she shared. This leap into a structured marketing apprenticeship was driven by her desire to turn her people skills into a corporate career.
Libby’s apprenticeship journey has been transformative, though not without hurdles. She’s gained valuable skills in multi-channel marketing, content creation, and strategic planning, which have boosted her confidence significantly. However, personal life challenges and departmental shifts tested her resilience. Transitioning from the Content team to the Sponsorship department brought new responsibilities, and she admits, “It hasn’t been easy, as there has been a lot going on in my personal life and I have struggled with changes.” Yet, the flexibility of the course has been a lifeline. “The flexibility of the course means I have been able to continue—and do well,” Libby noted, highlighting how the programme adapted to her needs.
Throughout her apprenticeship, Libby has benefited immensely from the unwavering support of Professional Academy. The dedicated tutors provided personalised guidance, helping her master complex marketing concepts and build practical skills, even during her toughest moments. Additionally, the mentors played a crucial role in navigating the lows, offering encouragement and tailored advice when personal challenges threatened to derail her progress. “The tutors and mentors were there every step of the way, especially when I needed it most,” Libby reflects, crediting their support for keeping her motivated and on track.
Libby’s hard work paid off with a well-deserved promotion, landing her in her dream job within the Sponsorship team at AO. This achievement underscores the practical impact of her apprenticeship, turning challenges into opportunities for growth. Her ability to thrive amidst change is a testament to her determination and the support she received.
Drawing from her experience, Libby offers sage advice to future students: “Plan your time, put into practice what you learn, and use the models.” She’s become a big fan of SWOT analysis, crediting it for helping her strategise effectively. Additionally, she recommends Grad Girl Marketing as a resource, which she utilises for her Off the Job hours, proving the value of supplementary learning tools
Libby’s ambitions are sky-high. She’s preparing to lead an activation project independently for her End Point Assessment, a significant milestone in her apprenticeship. Looking further ahead, she aims to pursue the CIM Top Up after completing her Level 4 Marketing Executive Apprenticeship. Her ultimate goal? To undertake the Level 6 Marketing Apprenticeship and climb the ladder to a management role at AO. “I’m excited to see where this journey takes me,” she enthuses.
Inspired by Libby’s story? Discover how Professional Academy’s marketing apprenticeships can shape your career: Learn more about marketing courses and and apprenticeships UK.