About

Hi, I’m Michelle Midwinter.

I’m a former IT apprentice turned First Line IT Engineer at PGL Beyond, and an Apprenticeship Ambassador passionate about championing apprenticeships in the UK.

After almost a decade running my own handmade jewellery business, I made the decision to pivot into tech just shy of my 40yh birthday. It wasn’t the expected move — but it was the right one.

I’ve since completed my IT apprenticeship and, in 2025, was named Regional Winner of the BAE Systems Advanced Apprentice of the Year (West Midlands) at the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards.

This blog grew from that journey.

Why This Blog Exists

Apprenticeships are still misunderstood.

They’re often seen as a fallback option, something only for school leavers, or limited to traditional trades. The reality is very different.

Modern apprenticeships span tech, marketing, HR, healthcare, engineering, creative industries and more. They are credible, demanding, and career-defining.

They are not “second best.”
They are a serious pathway.

I created this space to share practical insight and lived experience for:

  • Career changers
  • New apprentices
  • Employers and line managers
  • Anyone navigating Gateway, EPA, or funding reforms
  • People who don’t see themselves reflected in the “typical” apprenticeship narrative

What You’ll Find Here

Clear explanations.
Honest reflections.
Practical guidance grounded in real experience.

From apprenticeship levels and End Point Assessment to mentorship, line management, and national policy changes, I write about what it’s actually like to build a career through this route.

I care about representation, access, and raising the profile of apprenticeships as a powerful option at any stage of life.

Beyond the Job Title

Before moving into tech, I built and ran my own creative business. That experience shaped how I work today: resilient, adaptable, and comfortable starting again when growth demands it.

Outside of work, I captain the A Team and mentor new skaters in my local roller derby league, because helping others build confidence and skill, whether in sport or in careers, is something I deeply believe in.

Let’s Connect

If you’re considering an apprenticeship, navigating a career change, or supporting someone on their journey, I’d love to hear from you.

Explore the blog — or connect with me on Linked In to continue the conversation.