When Sophie left school, she knew one thing for certain: university wasn’t for her. She wanted to earn, learn, and figure things out along the way. What she didn’t know was that a single decision, starting a Level 2 Customer Service apprenticeship with Avant Skills Academy, would set the foundation for a career she once never imagined for herself.
Fast forward to today, Sophie is thriving as a Level 5 Operations Manager apprentice with Kevin Stansfield Ltd. Her story shows exactly what’s possible when you’re already employed but ready for the next step, even if you’re not quite sure where that step leads.
Starting Small… and Finding Her Path
Sophie didn’t begin her journey with a grand plan to reach management. In her words, she chose an apprenticeship because she “wasn’t sure what [she] wanted to do” but knew she wanted a job rather than university.
That first apprenticeship opened her eyes to something she did want: growth.
“I really enjoyed my Level 2 with Avant,” she explained, and when new opportunities appeared at work, continuing into the Team Leader and eventually Level 5 Operations Manager programme just made sense.
Growing Into a Leader
Today, Sophie plays a central role in the business. She’s the first point of contact for suppliers, clients, and auditing bodies, and she leads on compliance, including managing Safe and Local Supplier Approval (SLSA) audits from start to finish.
It’s a role that demands confidence, organisation, and professional communication. And thanks to the apprenticeships, those skills have become second nature.
“I have grown so much in confidence,” she said. “Being able to deal with a variety of situations professionally and effectively.”
She’s also become an ambassador for apprenticeships, giving talks in schools and colleges, something she never pictured herself doing before.
Support That Makes a Difference
A huge part of Sophie’s success comes from the support around her. Both Kevin Stansfield Ltd and Avant Skills Academy have invested in her growth every step of the way.
“Working together has developed my role and given me the skills to succeed,” she shared. And her tutor, Dave, brought it all to life: “He has real life experience which makes the learning relatable and adds context.”
This combination of workplace support and practical, real-world teaching is what helped Sophie move from apprentice… to team leader… to operations manager in training.
A Proud Career Milestone
One of Sophie’s proudest moments was being awarded her management title, something she knows she earned.
“I feel that I have earned this with the support of Avant and Stansfields.”
For many people in employment, stepping into leadership can feel out of reach. Sophie proves it doesn’t have to be.
Her Advice to Anyone Thinking About Career Progression
“Go for it!!! You can gain qualifications whilst working and putting what you learn into practice.” You can transform your career through Apprenticeships.
Simple, honest, and true.
If you’re already employed and want to progress your career, whether you’re aiming for team leader, supervisor, operations manager, or beyond, a management apprenticeship gives you the knowledge, confidence, and real-world experience to move forward without stepping away from work.
“Absolutely Brilliant.”
That’s how Sophie sums up her experience
Her journey proves that apprenticeships aren’t just for school leavers, they’re a powerful development tool for adults who want more from their career. Avant’s programmes support your progression, whether you’re pursuing your first leadership role or advancing toward higher-level senior management positions.
So, if you’ve been waiting for a sign that now is the time to invest in yourself, grow your skillset, and open new career doors, this is it.
Want to progress your career like Sophie?
Enquire today about Avant’s management apprenticeship pathways and take your next step with confidence. Transform Your Career Through Apprenticeships.