NAW Case Study - Mia Whittington
Apprenticeship Case Study: From Estimator to Health & Safety Advisor
Introduction
Apprenticeships play a vital role in developing skilled, motivated professionals while offering individuals the opportunity to earn, learn, and build meaningful careers. At LSP, we are proud to support apprentices and employers across a wide range of sectors, helping learners gain real-world experience alongside recognised qualifications.
This case study highlights the journey of Mia Whittington, a Health and Safety apprentice at M3 Group, whose experience demonstrates how apprenticeships can provide clarity, progression, and long-term career direction. From exploring multiple departments to securing a role aligned with her interests and strengths, Mia’s story reflects the flexibility and impact of a well-supported apprenticeship programme.
Finding Direction Through an Apprenticeship
Mia’s apprenticeship journey is a strong example of how flexible, employer-led apprenticeships can help young people discover the right career pathway while gaining real-world experience.
Mia joined M3 Group as an Estimator Apprentice, but early in her programme she was given an opportunity to gain exposure across the business.
“I was offered an amazing opportunity to work with all heads of departments for a week to decide myself what I’m keener to get into and build my career upon.”
Following this experience, Mia chose to transition into the Health and Safety Department, where she now works as a Trainee Health and Safety Advisor.
“In the end I chose to work with Kev in the Health and Safety Department. I am now a Trainee Health and Safety Advisor, and this job role relates best to what we do in the apprenticeship.”
Developing Real Skills in a Real Role
Mia’s role allows her to apply her learning directly within the workplace, ensuring her apprenticeship is both relevant and impactful.
Her responsibilities include:
Reviewing and logging site audits from Project Managers
Monitoring fitter qualifications and compliance documentation
Supporting toolbox talks at the production office
Completing site safety audits and reports
“On a Monday morning I check if all site audits have been completed and received from Project Managers, follow these up and put them onto the database. Throughout the week I check if fitters have the correct qualifications and put everything into files.”
This hands-on experience has enabled Mia to build confidence, organisational skills, and a strong understanding of health and safety processes.
Creating Opportunity and Career Clarity
For Mia, the apprenticeship provided access to opportunities that previously felt limited.
“Living on the Isle of Wight there is not a lot of job opportunities… you find yourself feeling very stuck – not knowing what to do. Now, I feel a sense of direction.”
After completing her GCSEs, Mia explored sixth form and college but found that these routes did not align with her goals.
“Nothing was interesting me or giving me a true purpose. I almost wasted a lot of time and money going to university, which wouldn’t have been the right path for me at all.”
Her apprenticeship offered the balance she was seeking — paid employment alongside structured learning.
“I love how I’m working and still learning. I LOVE to learn — especially finally learning about something I’m truly interested in, all while having a job at the same time.”
The Value of Apprenticeships for Learners and Employers
Mia believes apprenticeships should be promoted more widely within education and industry.
“I wish more schools educated about apprenticeships. That would have been the first thing I did when I finished school.”
She also highlights the benefits apprentices bring to employers:
“Employers should offer more apprenticeships to young people. It really helps having a young, enthusiastic, and optimistic member joining your team.”
Through her apprenticeship, Mia has gained both practical experience and a recognised qualification, supporting her long-term career progression.
Advice for Future Apprentices
Mia encourages others considering an apprenticeship to take the opportunity when it arises.
“It really helps to get your foot in the door to the real world, but at the exact pace you need when you’re young.”
She also praises the ongoing support provided by LSP:
“LSP is such a helpful organisation with lovely staff who are always happy to give you advice. The monthly newsletter is also lovely — speaking about such important topics is truly enlightening.”