天美视频

This week is , an opportunity to showcase and celebrate the impact apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses and the industries they serve. 

Apprenticeships combine employment with learning, providing the opportunity to achieve qualifications that help you progress your career further as you work. 

At 天美视频, we offer apprenticeships across a variety of key industries including food, veterinary, land and environment, allowing students to get hands-on experience as well as learning theory in the classroom. 

We caught up with Elliot Mayes, from Suffolk, who is in the second year of his apprenticeship with , whilst studying BSc (Hons) in Rural Enterprise and Land Management (REALM) with us, to see how he’s getting on.

“I decided to do an apprenticeship because I learn far better in a hands-on, practical environment.  

“Being able to apply what I’m learning straight away helps concepts make sense much quicker than purely classroom-based learning.” 

The apprenticeship route also appealed to Elliot because it allowed him to gain real experience while working towards being chartered. 

“No two days are the same. As part of the Estate Management team, my day can range from property inspections, inventories and viewings to leading parts of client meetings, apply for grants, or compiling compensation claims and anything in-between.  

“While I usually start the day with a plan, something often comes up that needs dealing with immediately, which keeps the role varied and fast-paced.” 

As someone who was originally set on going to university full-time, Elliot has reflected on his journey at an apprentice - and now couldn’t recommend it enough. 

“You really do get the best of both worlds. I still experience university life during block teaching weeks at Harper Adams, but I also get to put what I’ve learned into practice straight away, which builds confidence and understanding far quicker. 

“I’ve developed strong communication skills, particularly when dealing with clients and contractors, as well as increased my confidence, decision-making ability, and time management for balancing work and study. 

“My favourite part is the variety of people I get to work with, from landowners to tenants to contractors, consultants, and statutory bodies.  

“What surprised me most was how quickly responsibility was given to me and how involved I became in real decision-making on estates early on. 

“One common misconception though is that apprenticeships are a ‘less academic’ or ‘easier’ option. In reality, they require a lot of commitment balancing full-time work with academic study, and they can be just as challenging – if not more so – than the traditional university route.” 

As an apprenticeship provider, Harper Adams values the input and support from employers to help continue developing our offering to suit the industries we provide for – and Elliot can really see the value industry insights can offer and would encourage other employers to consider them. 

“Apprenticeships are a great way for employers to engage with young people, develop talent from the ground up, and ensure skills are directly relevant to the industry. 

“Harper Adams’ strong practical focus makes it particularly well-suited to apprenticeships routes.” 

Elliot’s advice for someone considering if an apprenticeship, or university in general, is right for them, is: “It’s worth giving it a try. There’s no shame in realising a route isn’t right for you and changing direction.  

“Trying an apprenticeship, or university as a whole, gives you clarity, experience, and transferable skills that are valuable regardless of where you end up.” 

You can find out more information about the Apprenticeship routes we offer here.