Foyzul is 19 years old and is currently pursuing a Level 3 Content Creator Apprenticeship with Camden Council’s Proud to Care North London team.

Foyzul immigrated to the UK with his family due to lack of opportunities in his country of origin. He always knew what he wanted to do, but it took him time to get to where he is now. “I was even thinking about giving up applying for roles when it looked like I might not get the apprenticeship I wanted”, Foyzul explains.

Before applying for his apprenticeship, Foyzul had just finished his A Levels. Whilst he did successfully complete his A Levels, he found that the academic route was not the best option for him. “First I was applying independently – and not getting any replies from the companies I applied with. My sister had heard about the Camden Apprenticeships service and told me about it.”

Foyzul explains that “I did not see myself going to university, as this would have been just a repeat of my prior experience. I was drawn to apprenticeships as they combined studies with learning on a more practical level and you gain experience of working in the field whilst gaining your qualification.”

Foyzul’s role as a Content Creator Apprentice sits with the Proud to Care London Team who are responsible for recruitment in the Health and Social Care sector. His role involves networking with a range of stakeholders, including Health and Social Care Providers. His day-to-day duties include managing the Proud to Care Website, adding new vacancies, courses, news items. He also runs all the relevant social media platforms and newsletters, and he also carries out the marketing for all of the team’s events – including creating the marketing material.

When asked about what he is learning in his apprenticeship, Foyzul goes on to explain that: “Even though I have only been on my apprenticeships for a couple of months, I have learnt a lot with the support of my team and my training provider. I have learned data analysis and how to tailor my content to the right target audience. I have learned how to use different tools to manage the website, including using different programming languages, such as Java Script.”

Foyzul adds that he has also learnt how to carry out and record interviews, and using editing tools to create videos to use on the website. He also edits the images that his team uses as a part of the website and other marketing. Foyzul also has a change to collaborate and network with a wide range of colleagues and other stake holders, helping him hone his communication and networking skills.

On what he enjoys most about the apprenticeship, Foyzul states that: “What I enjoy the most is how varied the role is. No two days are the same. Some days I spent working on the website, some days I am attending events, on another day I might be interviewing and filming material to be used for marketing and on other days I will be visiting partners and other stake holders.”

Foyzul benefits from the support of his team, the training provider and the Camden Apprenticeships Team. “Within my team, I have a mentor who is a previous apprentice who did the same role as I did. I also have my line manager with whom I have daily support and regular one-to-ones. The Camden Apprenticeship Team helped me improve my CV and application and my interview skills when I applied and gave me encouragement when I was preparing for my interview.”

That path came through an apprenticeship opportunity with Camden Future Talent, a service designed to make apprenticeships more accessible, especially for those who may not meet conventional entry requirements.

That path came through an apprenticeship opportunity with Camden Future Talent, a service designed to make apprenticeships more accessible, especially for those who may not meet conventional entry requirements.

“I missed out on the study experience, especially the social aspect. My friends were all making new connections at college, and I wanted that too—but I wasn’t ready to go back to school,” Lana shared.

Foyzul explains that “I did not see myself going to university, as this would have been just a repeat of my prior experience. I was drawn to apprenticeships as they combined studies with learning on a more practical level and you gain experience of working in the field whilst gaining your qualification.”

Breaking Barriers Through Supportive Recruitment

Lana had previously looked into apprenticeships but was discouraged by rigid entry criteria. It wasn’t until a family friend—who had successfully completed an apprenticeship through Camden—encouraged her to apply that she gave it another shot.

That encouragement led her to a role in finance and administration with Sapphire Independent Housing, one of Camden’s suppliers. It was a perfect match.

“The support I received during the application process was incredible. I had never even been to an interview before but the pre-screening and practice interviews helped me overcome my nerves and build confidence,” Lana said.

Why Supportive Environments Matter

What made the difference for Lana wasn’t just the opportunity—it was the inclusive and empowering environment created by both Camden Future Talent and her employer, Sapphire Independent Housing. From warm, confidence-boosting communication to practical help with professional email writing, every step of the process was designed to meet her where she was.

“I felt comfortable opening up to my colleagues after speaking with the Camden team. My manager was understanding, patient, and non-judgemental. That made all the difference.”

Her training provider also played a key role. After being out of education for some time, Lana had to adjust. But with a supportive tutor who was both motivating and empathetic, she quickly found her footing.

The Business Case for Inclusive Apprenticeships

The approach taken by Camden Future Talent and Sapphire Independent Housing is a powerful example of how inclusive recruitment practices and supportive workplace cultures can unlock potential in individuals who might otherwise be overlooked. For employers, this isn’t just about doing the right thing—it’s a smart business move.

Looking Ahead

Today, Lana is thriving in her role and sees a future with her employer.

“I enjoy my role and the organisation’s mission aligns with my values. I can see myself staying here long-term. If not, I want to continue working with organisations that aim to better the lives of others.”