It’s National Apprenticeship Week and today I’m reflecting on my time so far at Co-relate as a marketing apprentice.

I’ve been an apprentice, on the real Living Wage, for almost 11 months, having started at the end of March 2025. Being an apprentice, part of my time is spent learning about marketing theory, which is delivered by Big Creative Education. Through the online tutorials, I’ve learned the basics of creating campaigns and how marketing works (and why it does). 

As a small business, Co-relate works across projects and sectors. Work includes writing sharp copy for clients, helping young people get their first creative job, and promoting environmental action through Plastic Free Thanet and Green Catalyst w Thanet. 

My role has been supporting the business; from manning recruitment stalls to editing Instagram reels, to writing posts like this one. The highlight has been seeing the number of young people that Creative Catalyst Thanet has helped into work. 

Having been to the peer meetings, and worked with a couple of the other young people, I’ve really seen the impact that the placements have had on their confidence and feeling job ready (or indeed realising their limits when it comes to work). 

I’ve also had the opportunity to do some networking with other small businesses and social enterprises. Who knew that Thanet had so many?

Overall, I’ve found being an apprentice at Co-relate to be a great way to earn while learning!