News & INSIGHTS
Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week at QDOS
Written 10th January 2025.
Since the start of QDOS, we have placed a large emphasis on learning and development through apprenticeships. With today marking the start of National Apprenticeship Week, we wanted to take this opportunity to sit down with our former and current apprentices to reflect on their journey and how the scheme has helped them. They also offer some key advice on how to make the most of your apprenticeship so if you are finishing school or college this summer and looking to kickstart your career, an apprenticeship with QDOS could be the ideal path for you.

Our first apprentice and current CAD Team Manager – Craig’s story
Craig is one of our longest lasting members of the team. He celebrated 10 years with us just in 2024. Craig’s journey with QDOS began when he decided that he wanted the chance to gain both work experience and a qualification.
What inspired you to pursue an apprenticeship?
“I was finding it difficult to get a job through platforms like Indeed because I didn’t have much experience. I knew an apprenticeship was a great way to get practical experience and a qualification.”
What support did you receive during your apprenticeship?
“QDOS helped me apply what I was learning in my coursework to real-life situations. I also got the chance to develop my IT skills and work with AutoCAD, which is still a key part in my role.”
How has your apprenticeship helped you today?
“It gave me a strong understanding of how a business operates. After 10 years at QDOS, I still apply what I learned from my apprenticeship in day-to-day operations.”
Advice for new apprentices?
“Make sure you choose an apprenticeship that aligns with something you enjoy and want to pursue. Ask questions and absorb as much knowledge as you can!”
From apprentice to Operations Manager – Joe’s story
For Joe, the hands-on experience of an apprenticeship was the perfect fit for his learning style. Joe found that an apprenticeship with QDOS allowed him to develop practical skills and responsibility, which suited his preferences much more than traditional classroom learning. Joe now works with us as our Operations Manager having progressed internally following the end of his apprenticeship.
What inspired you to pursue an apprenticeship?
“I wanted hands-on experience and to be accountable for my actions. I find it easier to learn when I’m directly involved in the work.”
What support did you receive from QDOS during your apprenticeship?
“The small company environment meant I got a lot of one-on-one attention. If I struggled with something, I could get immediate support from Craig, Damian, and Gavin, which was really valuable for someone at the very start of their career.”
What’s been the most rewarding moment?
“Being able to take responsibility for my own work and knowing that my contributions are part of a successful team effort.”
How do apprentices make the most out of their opportunity?
“Ask lots of questions, make sure you truly understand the answers, and build relationships with colleagues. The more you engage, the better the work environment and your motivation.”
Introducing our latest apprentice, Aidan
Aidan’s apprenticeship journey is an exciting example of how hands-on experience can provide both learning and personal growth. With a keen interest in CAD software, he was drawn to the idea of combining work and education, and he found the apprenticeship route with us QDOS to be the ideal way to achieve that.
What inspired you to pursue an apprenticeship?
“University never really appealed to me. I wanted to work, earn, and learn simultaneously, so an apprenticeship was the perfect fit for my personal interests.”
How did you discover your apprenticeship opportunity with QDOS?
“Rochdale Training reached out to me when I showed interest in CAD software. They told me about the opportunity at QDOS, and it seemed like the perfect match.”
What support have you received from colleagues and mentors?
“I’ve had constant access to help from my tutor and colleagues. They’ve taught me everything from basic software skills to overall work processes.”
What’s been the most rewarding aspect of your apprenticeship?
“The fact that my work is being used by companies all over the UK. It feels great to know that I’m contributing to something bigger.”
Why apprenticeships matter
At QDOS, we are proud of the impact our apprenticeships have had on our team members. From Craig to Joe to Aidan, each one of them has found unique ways to grow, learn, and contribute to our business. If you’re looking to get hands-on experience in a fast-growing company that values your learning, an apprenticeship at QDOS might be the opportunity you’ve been searching for.
We wanted to make sure to celebrate the growth, dedication, and future potential of all apprentices. Whether you’re finishing school or looking to switch career paths, the apprenticeship route we have provides a valuable learning experience and a strong foundation for future success.
READ MORE BLOGS
Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week at QDOS
Celebrate National Apprenticeship Week with QDOS! Learn about the rewarding journeys…
Next Day Service on As-Fitted Drawings Available Now!
Providing outstanding customer support has always been a cornerstone of our business…
Order Today, Supplied Tomorrow on Zone Plans up to 10 Zones!
Submit your project to us by 2pm, and we will ensure that it is processed for return…
Trusted by
Contact Us
Fill out our contact form below with your enquiry and one of our team will get back to you ASAP.