During National Apprenticeship Week, we want to shine a light on why apprenticeship opportunities matter so much to Start Tech and the wider business community. Apprenticeships are part of our approach to having the best team here at Start Tech. In fact, almost half of our current team started their journey with us as apprentices, which says a great deal about how seriously we take early careers.
More Than a First Step into IT
Many businesses see apprenticeships as a short-term cost-saving solution. However, that has never been our approach. At Start Tech, we see apprenticeships as the foundation of a real career in IT. We focus on developing skills, confidence and ambition, so people can grow with the business rather than simply pass through it.
From the moment an apprentice joins Start Tech, they are treated as a valued team member. They are not seen as students on the sidelines. Instead, they are here to learn, contribute and do meaningful work. We believe empowerment from day one makes a real difference.
Apprenticeships at Start Tech typically last between 12 and 24 months. During that time, apprentices gain hands-on experience alongside structured training and industry-recognised certifications. Equally important, they have monthly informal one-to-ones with a manager. These check-ins help us support wellbeing while also tracking progress and future goals.
Careers That Continue to Grow
We want our apprentices to stay with us once their placement ends, so we continue to invest in their development long after the apprenticeship finishes. This includes funding further industry qualifications and management training. As a result, team members can move through different areas of the business as their skills develop.
Passing on the Experience
One of the strengths of our approach is the number of former apprentices already in the team. They now support new starters and share their own experiences. Because they understand the challenges firsthand, their advice is practical and invaluable. This creates a supportive environment built on trust, respect and shared ambition.
Recognition and Real Career Stories
Our commitment to clear, long-term career pathways was recognised last year at the Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin Apprenticeship Awards. Start Tech was named Apprentice Employer of the Year Champions for a small business, which we are incredibly proud of.
Many of our success stories began with an apprenticeship. Jordon, Ellis, James, Ryan, Luke, Jodie, Kieron and Josh all started their careers with us this way.
Luke Plimmer joined us for work experience at just 16 in 2025. He impressed the team so much that we offered him a full-time apprenticeship. Since then, he has gone from strength to strength and recently won Employee of the Quarter.
Jordon joined as an apprentice and is now our Operations Director, overseeing department heads and helping lead the business forward. Ellis and Ryan progressed into Project Service Technician roles, delivering projects for new and existing clients. Josh Upton started on the service desk, became Head of Service Desk, and now leads as Compliance and Automation Manager.
Looking Ahead
Apprenticeships are vital, not just in IT but across every industry. They help businesses grow strong teams while giving people a clear route into rewarding careers.
If you are interested in working at Start Tech, please get in touch.
