I grew up in Lewisham South East London attending Addey and Stanhope secondary and Prendergast. I have a twin sister and older brother, both of which have helped me throughout my journey. My only work experience was helping out at my local British Heart Foundation on weekends.

Before starting my apprenticeship, I studied Sociology, Computer Science and Business. I enjoyed all three subjects and worked hard to achieve good grades, but despite this, I still wasn’t completely sure what I wanted to do after finishing sixth form.

Like many people around me, university seemed like the obvious next step because that’s what everyone else was doing. I leaned towards studying Business because it felt like a safe option, but deep down I wasn’t fully convinced it was the right path for me.

Everything changed when Urban Synergy, a youth empowerment charity I was involved with, offered me a one-week work experience placement at PwC. At the time, I didn’t know much about professional services, but I was excited by the opportunity. Looking back, that one week ended up changing my life completely.

During the placement, I learnt about PwC’s different service lines, the work they do and the apprenticeship opportunities available. I also gained a much better understanding of the application process. By the end of the week, I knew exactly what I wanted to do and felt motivated to make it happen.

After receiving a fast-track opportunity, I started the recruitment process. It began with a HireVue interview, followed by an online assessment centre and an interview with a member of PwC’s recruitment team. It was my first experience of a professional recruitment process and definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone, but I knew how much I wanted the role and gave every stage my best effort.

With determination, the support of Urban Synergy and mentors. In September 2024, I officially became a Management Consultant Apprentice at PwC. It was a moment I had worked incredibly hard for and one that made me proud of how far I had come. Looking back, it has genuinely been one of the best things to ever happen to me.

Why did I choose an apprenticeship?

One of the main reasons I chose an apprenticeship was because I loved the idea of earning while learning. It allowed me to continue developing my skills and education without taking on university debt. While university is a great option for many people, I liked the fact that I could start building my career straight away whilst also working towards a recognised qualification.

I was also attracted to the opportunity to gain real-world experience from day one. Rather than learning purely in a classroom, I would be working alongside professionals and developing practical skills that employers value. I felt this would help me stand out in the job market and allow me to build important employability skills much earlier in my career than I might have done through a more traditional route.

What’s been the best moment from your apprenticeship?

One of the best parts of my apprenticeship has been having the opportunity to get involved in wider PwC activities outside of my day-to-day role. I currently support the PwC Black Network as Head of Schools and Outreach, where I help arrange school visits and speak to young people about apprenticeships and careers. Being able to share my own journey and help others understand the opportunities available to them has been incredibly rewarding and something I am really proud of.

Another highlight has been the culture at PwC. From day one, everyone has been welcoming, supportive and willing to help whenever needed. No matter how busy people are, they will make an effort to answer questions, offer advice or provide guidance. It creates a great environment to learn, develop and grow, and has made my apprenticeship experience even more enjoyable.

How have you changed or developed within your apprenticeship?

My apprenticeship has helped me develop in many different ways, both professionally and personally. I have become much more mature and gained new skills and competencies across a range of areas. I have also developed my ability to work effectively within a team, learning how to collaborate with different people and contribute towards shared goals. Most importantly, I now have a much clearer direction for my future and a better understanding of where I want my career to go.

What advice would you have for anyone thinking of doing this apprenticeship?

One piece of advice I would give is to thoroughly research any company you are applying to. Try to understand their values, culture and the work they do. I treated it almost like studying for a school subject, making sure I knew as much as possible before my interviews. Having examples and case studies that relate to the company can also help you stand out and show genuine interest in the role.

I would also say that rejection is completely normal. Not every application or interview will go your way, and that is okay. The important thing is to learn from each experience and keep moving forward. Don’t allow setbacks to damage your confidence or make you doubt yourself. Sometimes rejection is simply redirection towards an opportunity that is even better suited to you.

Once you secure the role, make the most of the opportunity. Come to work dressed appropriately, be mindful of the example you set for others and always maintain a positive attitude. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, stay curious and seek help whenever you don’t understand something. Nobody expects you to know everything from day one. Be on time, work hard and give every task your best effort. If you do those things consistently, you will put yourself in a great position to succeed.

Jadon Black

PwC Management Consultant Apprentice | USYC Co-Chair | Living Bankside Director | Future Leader Alumni 

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