If you've been here before - yes things have evolved! If you are new here, Welcome! My name is Michelle, and this is where I will share my journey from running a small creative buisness, to working in IT as an apprentice.
This site is home to Ctrl+Alt+Begin, my blog for aspiring apprentices and career changers, and Ctrl+Alt+Create, my creative outlet. I hope you find something here that inspires you.
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Ctrl+Alt+Begin: Fresh Starts, Real Stories, Honest Advice
If you're on an apprenticeship, you’ll eventually reach a point called Gateway, but what does that actually mean? In this post, I break down what Gateway is, why it's important, and what happens next. Whether you're preparing for your End Point Assessment or just curious about the journey ahead, this is a must-read guide to one of the most important milestones in any apprenticeship.
Managing an apprentice isn’t just about day-to-day supervision - it’s about supporting someone’s growth, balancing work and study, and helping them succeed in a structured learning environment. This guide explains how line managers can support apprentices effectively, understand off-the-job training requirements, and stay up to date with recent changes like the new Functional Skills rules.
The End Point Assessment (EPA) is the final stage of your apprenticeship - but it doesn’t have to be daunting. In this post, I share what the EPA is, how it works, and practical tips to help you feel confident and prepared when the time comes.
Here I talk about the inspiration behind my latest creation of Bluebell Earrings and recommend some places to see the bluebells in bloom in Gloucestershire
