I’ve always thought apprenticeships could change lives. For me, they did but not in the way I expected. After dropping out of university a year earlier, I found my apprenticeship through the government’s ‘Find a job’ service. It was a Level 3 in business and administration. At the time, I didn’t really know what apprenticeships were, so I saw it as just another job. I went for the interview, and a week later I was offered my first proper role with the company. It was then I took time to research what an apprenticeship really meant and what I had signed up for.

A few months in, life got messy. I was 20, homeless, with no money for food and no one to lean on. I’d been declared bankrupt and even struggled to open a bank account to have my wages paid. Around that time, I was also diagnosed with combined-type ADHD.

I studied while dealing with all of that. I pushed through trying to stay focused on my goals. I completed over 90% of my course in just 6 months, excelled in the work I was doing and became an apprenticeship ambassador supporting other young people to see the value in work-based learning. That period of my life changed everything for me. I got my own flat, made friends, saved some money, and discovered my passion: helping others. It gave me purpose and helped me realise I did not have to be defined by where I had been and that I could be proud of where I was going.

Just before I was due to complete my apprenticeship, I was given notice that I was being let go. That moment hit hard. After everything I had overcome, it felt like the rug was pulled out from under me. That experience opened my eyes to the real challenges apprentices face. It also pushed me to start something new.

I launched a recruitment business called Aspo which comes from the words Aspiration and Possibility. It is focused on helping apprentices find real opportunities and support. I want employers to see apprentices as future leaders, not just cheap labour or a box to tick. I want young people to feel seen and backed from day one. Running Aspo today is more than a job; it’s a mission shaped by my own journey and the belief that every apprentice deserves a fair chance.

I did not start with much, and I am still figuring things out. But apprenticeships gave me a foundation when I had nothing. Now I am committed to making sure others don’t just get by, but truly thrive. Because everyone deserves the chance to build a future they can be proud of no matter where they start.

James Kimble

Managing Director at JKC Group. AAN County Lead and Apprenticeship Ambassador. Former Apprentice

You can find out more and connect with James on LinkedIn.