My Top 10 Takeaways from My Apprenticeship Journey So Far

By Alex Quirk, Social Value Apprentice at Fusion21

This National Apprenticeship Week, I’ve been reflecting on my apprenticeship journey so far, as I edge toward my End Point Assessment - the final stage where I’ll demonstrate what I’ve learned and complete my programme.

I’m studying for a Level 4 Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Apprenticeship while working with the Social Value team atFusion21, gaining hands-on experience in planning and delivering social value activities.

It’s been a time of learning, getting stuck in, and seeing firsthand how our work makes a difference in communities.

Here are my top ten takeaways:

1. Social value is about people, not processes
It’s easy to get caught up in terminology or paperwork, but at its heart, social value is about positively impacting people’s lives. Seeing that inaction has been the best part.

2. You don’t need to know everything on day one
Apprenticeships allow you to learn as you go. Asking questions, learning from mistakes, and having a supportive team all make a difference.

3. Your work really does matter
I’ve enjoyed delivering meaningful social value across construction sites in Knowsley - helping create jobs, apprenticeships, training, and community projects.

4. Collaboration is key
Social value isn’t a solo effort. Working with colleagues, contractors, local authorities, developers, and community groups has shown me how much more we can do together.

5. Learning happens everywhere
Events like the Social Value Portal Conference opened my eyes to the biggerpicture, and how individual projects contribute to wider community and economicoutcomes.

6. Stories matter more than numbers
Data shows what’s been delivered, but the real difference comes from the people behind the numbers - like hearing how a job placement, training course, or the right support has changed someone’s life.

7. Apprentices can make things happen
A highlight for me was helping to organise a Women in STEM event at Lord Derby Academy, taking female pupils on a construction site tour and showing them the opportunities available in the industry.

8. Our voices can create change
Helping to set up the Knowsley Apprentice Network with Livv Housing and Knowsley Works was a proud moment. The network gives apprentices a platform to share experiences, raise concerns, and help make improvements that support young people in the borough.

9. Social value creates visible results
The whole team at Fusion21 is passionate about creating social value you can see. Across Fusion21’s 2024–2025 projects, hundreds of opportunities were created - from jobs and apprenticeships to training and placements.

10. Apprenticeships open doors you wouldn’t expect
Being nominated for ‘Apprentice of the Year’ at the Knowsley Business Awards in November was an incredible surprise! I was awarded highly commended in my category and had a brilliant night out at the awards evening with my team.

Looking back on everything I’ve learned since my first year, I’m excited for what’s next and keen to see what the future holds.  National Apprenticeship Week is a great reminder of what apprentices can achieve — and how much you can learn along the way.

If you’re thinking about an apprenticeship, go for it. You grow, you learn, and you get to see the impact of your work every single day.

To find out more about Fusion21’s social value offer, click here.