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Inside an apprentice's day: Real work, real learning | OneFile

Written by Admin | Aug 19, 2025 2:47:35 PM

When people ask what it’s like to be a PR apprentice, I usually say it’s a mix of real-world experience, learning curves and small wins that will eventually build into something bigger. Every day looks a little different, but that’s what makes it exciting

Where learning fits into my week 

I’m currently studying for a level 4 qualification in PR and communications with the PRCA, which covers everything from media writing and campaign planning to ethics and strategy. Most of the learning is done remotely through online workshops, assignments and tutor support, though there are occasional in-person sessions. That structure works really well alongside my full-time role.  

Each week, I have a study day dedicated to my apprenticeship work. It gives me the time and headspace to focus on my learning objectives and reflect on the experience I’m gaining at work. I use this day to update my learner journal, work on my assignments and track my progress on Onefile. Everything I upload is part of a bigger picture, helping me to build a portfolio that shows the skills I'm developing. 

Lessons from the real-world, not a textbook 

Coming  into this apprenticeship off the back of an undergraduate degree in Sociology has been eye-opening in terms of learning styles and approaches. Moving from the theory-heavy world of university into the practical, fast-paced environment of a PR agency is something that can initially feel daunting, but I feel combining the two has given me a useful understanding of people, communication and how messages land in the real-world. 

Working at Branagh PR means I get to see that process play out every day. One week I might be writing press releases for local businesses, the next I could be designing social media visuals or working on blogs. I’ve also come to understand the reality of what goes on behind a PR campaign. From the first draft of a press release to the back-and-forth of securing media coverage, I’ve seen how much thought and strategy goes into even the smallest task. It isn’t about just ticking off actions; it’s about timing things right, knowing who to speak to and understanding how every detail fits into the bigger picture. 

Finding my feet with the right support 

When I started my apprenticeship in PR, I knew I'd be learning new skills and gaining real work experience. What I didn’t expect was how important the environment around me would become. The support from my employer, Branagh PR has had a major impact on my confidence growth within my role.  

An important part of that support comes from my employer understanding the level of commitment required to balance work and study. By recognising that an apprenticeship demands time, focus and a willingness to learn, I am given the flexibility and patience to manage my workload alongside my training. 

I’m also trusted with responsibility, but I also know I can ask questions. That balance has helped me feel valued while also developing as a learner and is something I think would be crucial for any apprentice. There’s encouragement when I need it, and room to try new things whilst learning as I go. 

The tools that support my progress 

Onefile has been essential for helping me stay focused and organised throughout my apprenticeship so far. I use it to log my progress and upload my work, but more importantly, it gives me a clear sense of where I'm at and what needs attention. It’s become part of my routine, making it easier to stay focused over time. When I meet with my tutor, I’m able to look back at previous entries and get a real sense of momentum. It’s easier to spot what’s been done and what still needs work, which helps me go into each meeting with purpose. That kind of consistency has made a big difference while balancing the demands of work and study. 

It’s also been interesting in my case to see Onefile from both sides, not just as the platform I use to track my apprenticeship progress, but also through the work we do with them at Branagh PR. Attending their User Conference gave me a whole new appreciation for the platform. I got to hear directly from the Onefile team about how it works behind the scenes, as well as from clients who spoke about the difference it’s made to their learners. As someone using the system daily, it was interesting to have the opportunity to see the impact it has on a larger scale and how much thought goes into making it work for people like me. That experience helped connect the dots between my learning and my work, something I don’t think I’d have fully understood without seeing both sides.

 

How experience builds confidence 

When I think back to where I started, the difference is clear. Early on, everything felt new and I was focused on finding a rhythm and understanding how things worked. Since then, I’ve grown into the role and now approach my work with more confidence. I’m more comfortable sharing ideas and taking responsibility for the work I produce. 

Progress hasn’t come at once, and there is still so much to learn. Experience and confidence can only build gradually from trying new things, learning from feedback and adapting along the way in my experience. Every challenge has added something new to my development. 

Looking ahead 

I didn’t come into this role with all the answers. In fact, one of the best parts about being an apprentice is the space it gives you to grow. I'm not only working with real clients and contributing to campaigns, but I’m also learning the process of building your confidence, managing my time and developing my own professional voice along the way. 

For anyone considering an apprenticeship, the experience can be both challenging and incredibly rewarding when the right support is in place. With the space to learn, encouragement to grow and tools to stay organised, apprenticeships give you a real opportunity to step into your future with confidence.