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Supportive, inspiring, invaluable
Thomas Bliss describes his apprenticeship journey with MetaGedu Apprenticeships.
After leaving school and facing challenges securing a job, Thomas Bliss remained determined to build a career in education or archiving. Eager to find a practical, supportive pathway, he discovered MetaGedu Apprenticeships. Drawn by its mission to empower learners through career-focused education, Thomas began his journey at Global Banking School (GBS) in Leeds as a Reception and Business Support Apprentice with the Facilities team, where he completed his Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship and laid a strong foundation for his future.
Thomas chose MetaGedu Apprenticeships because of their commitment to offering practical alternatives to university education. In view of the institution’s diversity, professionalism and welcoming atmosphere, he felt it was an ideal place for both personal and professional growth.
Starting with minimal IT skills, Thomas quickly developed proficiency across the major Microsoft Office tools. His journey included learning as well as teaching – coaching other apprentices and leading projects that improved business operations. Thomas gained valuable skills and made a real contribution to his organisation through initiatives such as redesigning signage across the Leeds campuses and implementing new internal processes.
Beyond technical expertise, Thomas’ apprenticeship boosted his personal confidence, allowing him to take on greater responsibilities as a professional.
Thomas began his apprenticeship with limited IT knowledge but soon acquired skills in the full range of Microsoft Office applications. His ability to create documents, manage data and support business operations became so strong that he began mentoring fellow apprentices. This transformation gave him a critical technical foundation and the confidence to manage real-world business tasks independently.
Thomas designed, created and implemented a new business process within GBS as part of his end-point assessment project. This experience taught him essential project management techniques, from planning and execution to evaluation, skills that are crucial for any future business leader.
Among Thomas’s major achievements was the updating and redesign of signage across the Leeds campuses. The experience taught him how to develop clear, professional communications that improve campus operations and enhance the student experience, skills that is often overlooked but vital in the business world.
Thomas’ self-confidence increased greatly as a result of the consistent support and training provided by GBS and MetaGedu. He transitioned from being socially reserved to communicating assertively with staff, managing reception duties and even enforcing campus regulations. His journey was recognised when he received MetaGedu’s Professional Services Apprentice of the Year 2024 award, a moment that affirmed his abilities and boosted his belief in his potential.
The apprenticeship journey of Thomas demonstrates the power of the right environment, mentorship and determination that can translate potential into success in the real world. Having reached this point, his hopes of managing a culturally significant educational institution, such as the British Library or British Museum, have become a reality.
A MetaGedu Apprenticeship may be summarised in three words: supportive, inspiring and invaluable. Thomas Bliss exemplifies what is possible.
