National Apprenticeship Week 2025 – FM Success Stories

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10 February 2025 | Updated 11 February 2025

NHS Property Services, OCS, Amey and others have all highlighted success stories for National Apprenticeship Week 2025.

 

"In 2023, I seized the opportunity to embark on an apprenticeship, a decision I made after a lot of soul-searching. I initially thought I would never be good enough to achieve a qualification, that I was too old at 55 years old and would just be wasting management's time. I was so wrong."

–Gwen Binyon

Domestic Assistant Apprentice, NHS Property Services

 

NHS Property Services

 

In 2024, 32 people successfully completed their apprenticeships at NHS Property Services, and 23 new apprentices began their journey. The apprentices are currently pursuing qualifications across 24 different specialisms, ranging from Level 2 to Level 7. 100 per cent of NHS Property Services apprentices have transitioned into permanent employment.

Gwen Binyon, Domestic Assistant, said: “I have dedicated over 15 years to working as a domestic at NHS Property Services. In 2023, I seized the opportunity to embark on an apprenticeship, a decision I made after a lot of soul-searching. I initially thought I would never be good enough to achieve a qualification, that I was too old at 55 years old and would just be wasting management's time. I was so wrong. This apprenticeship has been instrumental in shaping my career aspirations. It has confirmed my passion for NHS Property Services and inspired me to pursue further opportunities. I am now more confident in my abilities and excited about the future than ever.” 

Will Harwood-Moss, Apprentice Maintenance Technician, said: “I've always wanted to start an electrical apprenticeship; I've always been a hands-on person and being an electrical engineer means I can be there in the situation helping people. Every day is different with the wide range of installations we work with. On a day-to-day basis, I work with different electricians, and this allows me to build up my knowledge. The most important part is that they show me how to do the work in the highest standard possible while keeping the customer at heart. I’ve worked with a lot of mentors at NHSPS, and they’ve made me feel so supported, being able to ask as many questions as I need. I would definitely recommend going for apprenticeship if you’re on the fence. It's a great opportunity to build on your knowledge, but also your social and technical skills - you can work across all across the country!” 

 

Picture: a photograph of Will, standing in front of an NHS Property Servces van. Image Credit: NHS Property Services

 

Kerry Theron, Domestic Team Leader, said: “The woman in leadership apprenticeship has been such an adventure. I’ve learned so much about time management and emotional intelligence, it’s brought a whole other person in me that I never knew was there. I’ve always been a joker at work, but this course made me realise I can still be funny and manage a situation in the right way. It's always been my dream to work for a company where I could upscale myself and move upwards. Not just that but also use my work to make a difference no matter how small. I'm so grateful to Property Services for this chance, for seeing my potential and asking me what more could they do for me.” 

 

Amey

 

Amey is currently supporting 570 apprentices, including Annabelle Farrington, who is in their third year of an Environmental Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship. Annabelle said: “I chose an apprenticeship at Amey because I learn best through hands-on experience and wanted to see how my university studies translate into real-world impact. I particularly chose Amey due to the business’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and improving communities which perfectly aligns with my passion for environmental protection.

“Now in my third year of the Environmental Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship, I’m gaining invaluable skills in biodiversity conservation, carbon reduction, and environmental compliance whilst working on vital projects that contribute to the UK’s net-zero targets.

“For anyone considering an apprenticeship, I’d say do your research, highlight your passion, and keep your options open. By the time your apprenticeship is complete, you’ll already have a few years of industry experience, setting you apart from other graduates and accelerating your career.”

Charlie Hudson, Assistant Project Manager and Former Associate Project Management Apprentice at Amey, said: “Choosing an apprenticeship over university was an easy decision but I was looking for an avenue that would give me real-world experience, career progression, and financial independence. The Level 4 Associate Project Management Apprenticeship gave me a two-year head start, allowing me to develop key skills in project management, contract oversight, and risk analysis while building strong industry relationships.

Amey currently has 75 apprenticeship roles open for 2025 in areas such as civil and rail engineering, human resources, FM, infrastructure management, technology and finance. 

 

OCS

 

OCS held its fourth annual Apprentice of the Year award ceremony at its London office to honour its twelve Apprentice of the Month winners, their line managers, and training service providers. 

The 2024 Apprentice of the Year's finalists were presented with their awards. The event culminated in the crowning of the third-place winner, runner-up, and overall winner of the Apprentice of the Year award.

The team presented Heather Andrews, Manchester Central Venue Housekeeping Manager, as the third-place winner; Christine Kitcher, FCMGR Deputy IFM Manager, as the runner-up; and finally, Emma Fletcher, Business Coordinator at Arndale Centre, as the overall winner and 2024 Apprentice of the Year.

 

Integral

 

JLL's FM arm Integral has also shared comments from their employees who started out as apprentices:

Brendon Dolan, Supervisor, said: “After 16 years as a mobile engineer with Integral, I transitioned to a static site role and was nominated for the Level 4 Diploma in Facilities Management through the vocational upskilling programme. This marked a major milestone in my career growth.

“Balancing work and study was challenging at first, but with my manager’s mentorship and support, I developed a routine that allowed me to succeed. 

“The diploma has expanded my knowledge in areas like accounting, management, and legal compliance. It also built my confidence in digital tools and prepared me for my new role as a supervisor, where I manage complex projects. 

“The advice I would give anyone considering an apprenticeship is to embrace the support around you! Ask questions, lean in your mentors, and keep pushing forward. The effort is worth it, and the rewards will follow." 

Ross Halliday, Operational Trainer, said: “Having worked in this role for a while without formal training, joining Integral gave me the chance to gain a valuable qualification. With the costs covered and the ability to study during work hours, it was an easy decision to pursue this opportunity. 

“The learning complements my role perfectly. What I learn helps me at work, and my work experience enhances my learning. With great support from my manager and the wider team, I’ve been given the time and exposure to tasks I wouldn’t normally encounter. 

“I’m gaining knowledge in adult learning theories, learning styles, training cycles, learning technologies, and project management, among other areas.

“The advice I would give anyone considering an apprenticeship is Go for it! Earning while learning is an incredible opportunity. Set aside time each week for your studies and stay consistent. Don’t treat it as a tick-box exercise – make it meaningful and let it truly enhance your skills."

Picture: a photograph of two people sitting opposite each other at a desk smiling.  Both are using laptops. Image Credit: Amey

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 10 February 2025

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