HSDC is celebrating a standout milestone for its Apprenticeship provision after Apprentice Libby Pycroft appeared on BBC Politics South on 15 February, offering viewers a first-hand insight into how structured, career-focused training can help young people take confident steps into the workplace.
Libby, who currently works as a Business Administrator Apprentice at HSBM Facilities Management, spoke openly about how her Apprenticeship with HSDC has shaped her development – building her confidence, supporting her progression and helping her to gain practical experience that is already proving invaluable in her day-to-day role. Her journey reflects the strong foundations that Apprenticeships at HSDC can provide young people with, particularly through close employer collaboration and exposure to real-world expectations.
Libby said:
“It’s great to be able to earn a paycheck on a regular basis. Personally, I’m really happy with the work that I’m doing and think it’s been a great alternative route to university, which didn’t appeal to me. This Apprenticeship has also made me a more mature person, as it’s given me a real insight into the realities of adulthood.”
Joining Libby on the BBC sofa was Suki Dhesi, HSDC’s Deputy Principal for Curriculum & Quality, who highlighted how the College works with local employers to design programmes that meet the genuine needs. Suki emphasised that when businesses have the right support, incentives and resources, they are in a stronger position to reach out to young people and help them to understand the wide range of opportunities available to them. Speaking with pride about HSDC’s Apprentices, Suki said:
“We’re really proud of the 16-18 year olds like Libby who have chosen this route for their education. HSDC is very keen for young people to take this path, it’s a great opportunity to develop technical, work-ready skills which students like Libby are showcasing on a daily basis.”
Speaking about the experience of appearing on the BBC, Libby said:
“Since being an apprentice at HSDC, I have been given so many opportunities, I have been invited to networking events, the HSDC awards ceremony, and been given the opportunity to represent apprenticeships and HSDC on BBC Politics South. I am so grateful for all of the opportunities, the support and confidence that the College has given me, and I would recommend a HSDC Apprenticeship to anybody!”
Libby’s appearance on the BBC underscores the value of HSDC’s focus on practical, hands-on learning. Combining paid on-the-job experience with guided study on campus has granted Libby access to the kinds of skills, environments and responsibilities that prepare learners for professional life from day one. Her story mirrors the approach that HSDC takes across all its programmes – ensuring that learners are not only acquiring knowledge, but applying it in ways that build confidence, resilience and ambition.
To find out more about our Apprenticeships, click here.