National Apprenticeship Week 2026 is in full swing. As part of our continued celebration we would like to introduce Focus apprentice, Kayleigh. We sat down with her to ask her all about her time as an apprentice.
Meet Focus Apprentice, Kayleigh
Focus: Kayleigh, tell us a bit about yourself and what inspired you to pursue a career in social work?
Kayleigh: My decision to pursue social work comes from both my personal experiences and my professional journey. I want to be the kind of support I wish I had as a child. My work in healthcare and community care, including roles as an ambulance care assistant and domiciliary carer, gave me first-hand experience of how compassionate care can make a real difference. Studying psychology, health and social care, and art therapy also helped me understand people, their behaviours, and the challenges they face. These experiences have inspired me to dedicate my career to helping others.
Focus: Why did you choose the apprenticeship route into social work?
Kayleigh: After nearly four years at Focus, I wanted to take my skills further and learn more formally. An apprenticeship felt like the perfect way to do this. It allows me to keep working and learning at the same time, combining practical experience with training. I enjoy learning through doing, and this approach helps me understand theory in a real-life context. The apprenticeship will also give me new knowledge and qualifications that can help me better support the people I work with and grow in my career.
It also avoids the student fees and money worries associated with studying and learning concurrently.
Focus: Can you tell us about a moment during your apprenticeship when you felt especially proud of the work you were doing?
Kayleigh: For me there isn’t a specific moment, but when social work works, it feels incredible. I feel proud of my work because I see the difference I make in people’s lives. Supporting individuals and families through difficult times is rewarding. Whether I am helping someone access the right resources, listening to their worries, or guiding them through challenges, I know my actions matter. It gives me satisfaction to combine my skills with empathy and compassion, knowing that my work can improve someone’s wellbeing and confidence.
Focus: What advice would you give to someone thinking about becoming a social work apprentice?
Kayleigh: If you are thinking about a social work apprenticeship, be prepared to learn a lot and give your best. Patience, understanding, and empathy is key. The work can be tough and very time consuming, but it is also very rewarding. I’ve learnt the nature of social work includes becoming comfortable with being uncomfortable. It is no easy task, but it is worth it. Listen carefully, ask questions, and reflect on what you see and experience. I have found I have learnt so much through reflection alone, it’s really contributed towards my practice.
Think you have what it takes to pursue a career in social care?
Keep an eye out on our careers page for opportunites to work af Focus. You never know, you could be a social work apprentice one day!
