Molly Harlow
Molly Harlow, studied at Sir William Robertson Academy, where she achieved her GCSEs, going on to Sixth Form to study Health and Social Care, Applied Science, and Business Studies.
She started her apprenticeship working in the council’s business support team who support the administrative work of the council – they help in children’s services, highways, management support and lots of other teams.
Molly said, “Unlike many of my friends, I knew I didn’t want to go to university. I wanted to gain real work experience, develop practical skills early in life, and earn while I learn. An apprenticeship felt like the best way to build confidence, independence, and valuable experience.
“I was really impressed by the range of opportunities Lincolnshire County Council offers across so many different teams and career paths. The organisation is well-respected, provides brilliant training, and offers genuine chances to grow and progress.
“The best part has been how much I’ve developed personally and professionally. My confidence has grown massively, and I’ve gained skills in lots of different areas. I would encourage young people to explore all the opportunities available and think about what they genuinely want to do. Apprenticeships offer a huge variety of career paths, so if you're motivated to learn and gain experience, an apprenticeship is a fantastic choice. It’s honestly an honour to have these opportunities available.”
Shay
Shay completed his GCSEs at Priory City Academies and is now in his final year at college finishing a T-Level course in accounting.
He has been in the council’s finance team for his industry placement since May 2025.
“I decided that the T-Level was right for me because you get hands-on experience in a workplace, and you’re getting qualifications while you’re at it.
“I worked in the accounts payable team for a couple of months and then switched to the adult finance team which I am still doing. I need to complete 315 hours of work experience, and you can choose when you work in a day, as long as you complete your work hours.
“My industry placement has helped me develop a great knowledge about working in an office environment and has also helped me to complete my T-Level course at college.
“If you want to do a T-Level, you will get early access into what work will be like when you’re older and also get great qualifications.”
Harvey Cook
Having achieved a triple distinction star in his Level 3 BTEC in Business, Harvey Cook, has no regrets about not pursuing a university course. Aged 25, he’s now working towards his Level 5 CIPD alongside an apprenticeship in the council’s Human Resources team.
“I’ve always been someone who learns on a more practical level, I can write assignments, but I wanted to push my practical understanding of the HR industry, enhance my knowledge and understand how policy and legislation work in real time.”
“I was already employed at the council and felt incredibly supported, valued and engaged in my role. My line manager and colleagues made starting an apprenticeship much less daunting – everyone has been so kind, caring and generous with their advice and time.
“The apprenticeship allows me to put learning into practice and see how more senior HR colleagues work within office. It is a lot of work though, but it absolutely is worth it and more. The network that you will build, alongside the practical knowledge and experience, is invaluable. I am looking forward to seeing where my career will head after this!”
