Apprenticeships are a great way to start your career — you get paid to do a real job, gain hands‑on experience and work towards a nationally recognised qualification. During National Apprenticeship Week, we’re celebrating the residents who are making it happen for themselves, with the right support behind them. 

One of them is Daniel Gessesse, an Islington resident whose journey shows just how far an apprenticeship can take you. 

Daniel’s story: finding a new direction

After studying IT and volunteering locally, Daniel was ready for a fresh start. He wanted a role where he could learn, earn and build a long‑term career. At a community outreach event, he discovered opportunities in fast‑growing sectors like tech and creative industries and received personalised support with applications and interview preparation. 

That support helped him secure a degree apprenticeship with Gate One, part of the Havas network — a role that combines paid work with a project management degree. 

Today, Daniel is going from strength to strength. He’s already managing projects and is building the confidence, skills and experience he needs to shape his future. 

“As a career changer, this opened doors to a new path and made the transition really smooth.” — Daniel 

His advice to anyone thinking about applying: “Go for it – no regrets!” 

Apprenticeships in Islington: making it happen

Daniel’s success is part of a much bigger picture. In Islington, apprenticeships are helping residents build skills, confidence and long‑term careers. Over the past few years, we’ve: 

• Supported more than 1,000 residents into apprenticeships with the council and local employers since 2022 

• Helped over 6,000 people move into work through employment support programmes 

• Delivered targeted support for young people facing the biggest barriers to training and employment 

• Worked with employers to open doors for underrepresented communities, including women, Black and global majority residents, neurodiverse people and disabled people 

Apprenticeships are helping residents earn, learn and build a secure future — and they’re helping employers access diverse, local talent too. 

Check out how the council is making it happen for residents across the borough.