Claire Botsford, who works for Augean, completed her Associate Project Manager Level 4 apprenticeship through Coventry-based MTD Training after 12 years as Bid Manager, five years at Augean. However, Mrs Botsford initially had reservations about finding the time to commit and wondered if it was "too late" to pursue this new goal at 56.

"I have always been passionate about continuous learning," said Mrs Botsford. "My employer was very supportive and encouraging throughout the process. Initially, I had some reservations about finding the time to commit and wondered if it was 'too late' to pursue this new goal. However, my mentor, who is of a similar age, truly understood my concerns and helped me see the benefits of moving forward."

Balancing the apprenticeship with work was no easy feat. Mrs Botsford, who is based in Wetherby, was also asked to take on the extra responsibility of being site manager for her office, meaning she was already quite stretched.

"The start of my apprenticeship coincided with being asked to project manage a refurbishment of the office where I work," she explained. "I was juggling my main job, managing this refurbishment, and undertaking my learning at the same time. I had no prior experience in running such a project or dealing with stakeholders and contractors. I was guided through each stage in real time by my mentor, which was a bit of a baptism of fire."

Since finishing her apprenticeship, Mrs Botsford said she has gained a deeper understanding of different personality and behaviour types, and how to interact effectively with people both professionally and personally. "My employer has benefited from my new knowledge and skills, which I now actively apply at work. I am now preparing to lead another larger site refurbishment project, where I will implement the guidelines and insights I learned during my apprenticeship. Overall, it has boosted my confidence and opened up new opportunities for me."

Tracy Sawrey, her MTD Training Skills Coach said: "Claire's learning journey was truly a transformational experience. It was a privilege to watch her not just acquire knowledge and understanding but also develop sound project management skills that she used immediately to manage a refurbishment project. Her passion to learn was infectious and she was quick to apply learning but also reflect on the application of her skills. The learning also was one of self-discovery and Claire's confidence in dealing with a variety of stakeholders grew each passing month. I often tell potential learners who are doubting whether an apprenticeship is right for them her story."

Sean McPheat, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of MTD Training, said: "In my experience, most people still see apprenticeships as something for school leavers, but the reality looks very different. The majority of ours are over 30, with the oldest apprentice being 59. Claire's determination to push past her doubts about being 'too late' at 56 shows just how powerful that opportunity can be when people back themselves."

Mrs Botsford's success comes during National Apprenticeship Week (9-15 February), which this year focuses on the theme 'Skills for Life' to highlight how apprenticeships can benefit people at any stage of their career.

MTD Training, which is based in Coventry, specialises in leadership and development training for businesses looking to upskill their existing teams. The company operates nationally across the UK with six training locations and offers both online and in person learning options. With 95% government funding available, businesses can offer their teams up to £9,000 worth of training from as little as £250, making professional development accessible for SMEs of all sizes.