A little about Brody’s apprenticeship…
Apprenticeship Title
Insurance Practitioner Level 3 Apprenticeship
Job title and employer
Apprentice Insurance Broker at McGill & Partners
What are 3 skills you’ve learned so far?
- Communication Skills
- Attention to Detail
- Time Management & Prioritisation
What are 3 interests outside of work?
- Football + Team Sports
- Spending time with friends and meeting new people
- Cooking
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What inspired you to choose an apprenticeship as your next step?
I chose an apprenticeship because I wanted to gain real-world experience while continuing to learn and develop professionally. I’ve always preferred hands-on learning, and the idea of earning while gaining qualifications really appealed to me.
Through the support I received from Visionpath, especially the workshops and mentoring, I started to understand how valuable apprenticeships can be and how interesting a career in the insurance industry is. They helped break down the process and made it feel much more achievable by feeding me all the information I need to smash my interviews and how to stand out in assessment centres. Hearing from current apprentices and professionals during the sessions gave me a clearer picture of what to expect, and made me realise that this path could lead to a successful career without needing the traditional university route.
"The guidance I got helped me feel confident in choosing an apprenticeship, and I’m really glad I took that step"
What kinds of things do you get up to in your role? Any tasks you especially enjoy?
In my role as an apprentice insurance broker, I support the team with a range of tasks that help keep things running smoothly. This includes filing client documentation, updating policy records, managing renewals, and quoting new enquiries. I also communicate with clients and insurers to gather important information and ensure everything is accurate and up to date.
One task I especially enjoy is supporting with quotes and renewals. I find it interesting to see how different types of cover are tailored to each client. It’s helped me build a stronger understanding of the insurance market and the reasoning behind different policies. I also enjoy working with experienced brokers and learning how they build relationships and solve problems for clients.
Early exposure through Visionpath helped massively. Their sessions gave me a better understanding of the professional environment and the overall context to help me get started in the industry.
What’s been the standout highlight of your apprenticeship so far?
The standout highlight of my apprenticeship so far has been receiving positive feedback from both my manager and colleagues after supporting a key client renewal. I was trusted to help prepare the Market Reform Contract, gather information to present to underwriters and make sure everything was in order ahead of the deadline. It felt great to know that my work directly contributed to a smooth process and a happy client.
It was one of those moments where I realised how far I’ve come since starting, not just in terms of skills, but in confidence too. At the start of the year, I wouldn’t have imagined being trusted with that level of responsibility and I am trusted with clients on a regular occurrence in my career today.
Looking back, I know the guidance I received through Visionpath played a big part. Their support helped me build confidence early on and prepared me to step into a professional environment with the right mindset. That foundation made moments like this even more meaningful because I could really see the progress I’ve made.
Have you come up against any challenges during your apprenticeship, and how did you navigate them?
Yes, a big challenge came right at the very start of my apprenticeship. The week I was supposed to begin, I broke my ankle and had to have surgery. This meant I was bed-bound for the first couple of months of my insurance journey. It was incredibly tough trying to transition from school into the working world without being able to physically go into the office, especially because I’m someone who thrives in face-to-face environments and learns best through in-person interaction.
At times it felt overwhelming, starting a new chapter remotely, in a completely unfamiliar industry, and managing pain and recovery on top of that. But I knew I didn’t want to fall behind or let the opportunity slip away. So I focused on what I could do: I stayed engaged during online meetings, made the most of virtual training, and asked lots of questions to stay connected with the team. I also set small daily goals to keep my momentum going.
Looking back, I’ve actually gained a lot from that experience. It taught me how to adapt under pressure, stay motivated even when things aren’t ideal, and communicate more confidently online. The support and advice I received, including tools and mindset tips from Visionpath helped me stay positive and focused.
"That tough start ended up shaping me into someone more resilient, independent, and determined."
What’s helped you feel supported during your apprenticeship?
I’ve felt really supported throughout my apprenticeship thanks to regular communication and encouragement from my manager and my apprenticeship provider.
My manager holds bi-weekly catch-ups and check-ins where they ask not only about my work progress but also how I’m doing personally. This open and supportive approach means I always feel comfortable sharing any challenges or questions, whether they’re about work tasks or something outside of work. It helps me get the right support to perform at my best for the team.
I also receive great support from my apprenticeship provider, BPP. Balancing work, study, and exams can be tough, but my coach is always there to help. They schedule regular catch-ups to check in, talk through any difficulties, and help me find solutions to reduce stress. Knowing that someone is actively supporting me both academically and professionally has made a big difference in staying motivated and confident throughout my apprenticeship.
What moment made you realise you’d made the right decision choosing an apprenticeship?
Before starting my apprenticeship, I was worried about missing out on the typical university experience and the “fun lifestyle” that comes with it. However, as I settled into my role, I quickly realised that an apprenticeship offers a different but equally rewarding experience.
One moment that really made me feel I’d made the right choice was when I saw how much I was learning and growing professionally, while also enjoying a vibrant social life outside of work. I’ve made great friends through my apprenticeship and have had some really good nights out and social events after work. Balancing building my career with a fulfilling social life has shown me that it’s possible to have the best of both worlds.
"Hearing success stories through Visionpath and seeing the progress I’ve made so far helped confirm that this path was the right fit for me, both personally and professionally."
Connect with Brody!
Here at Visionpath, our Ambassador Community is more than just a network, it’s a movement. Our ambassadors are current and former apprentices who are passionate about making a difference by sharing their real-life journeys to inspire the next generation.
Are you a current or former apprentice who wants to get involved in the movement? Email ambassadors@visionpath.co.uk to get started.
