Thomson Broadbent champions ‘earn while you learn’ career pathways during National Apprenticeship Week
A Northamptonshire-based land and property consultancy is highlighting the value of work-based learning during National Apprenticeship Week (9-15 February), as two members of its team progress towards professional qualifications alongside their roles.
Corby-based company Thomson Broadbent actively supports team members who want to develop their careers through vocational qualifications and on-the-job training, offering an alternative route into the profession for those keen to earn while they learn.
One of those team members is Aden, 19, who joined Thomson Broadbent as a trainee surveyor in September 2024 after studying construction management at Moulton College. With a long-standing interest in property, Aden was keen to gain practical experience rather than follow a full-time university route.
Aden said: “I’ve always been interested in property and construction, and university didn’t feel like the right avenue for me. I wanted to earn as I learn and get stuck into real work. The qualification I’m working towards will take four years, but the first couple of years are all about learning on the job and building experience.”
Now in his first office role, Aden says the transition from retail has been a steep but rewarding learning curve.
He said: “There’s a lot to take in, but I’m really enjoying it. I’ve been given responsibility and trust, which feels great, and I feel genuinely supported in what I need. I actually feel privileged to work here.”
Also developing her career through work-based training is Holly, 31, who has been with the business for nearly three years and whose route into the industry was far from conventional. Having previously worked in safeguarding and pastoral care within education, Holly joined Thomson Broadbent initially as a temporary team member while considering her next steps.
She said: “I didn’t expect to like it as much as I did. I didn’t know what I wanted to do at that point, but people here saw something in me. I moved from consents administrator to consents officer, and I’ve recently been promoted again to consents team lead.”
After discussing her ambitions with the senior team, Holly began working towards becoming a qualified surveyor in April last year. Thanks to prior learning and experience, she is now on track to qualify in summer 2027.
She said: “The training is a real mix of learning and doing. There’s a lot of in-house support, alongside written work and logging practical experience. I love the practical side of the job and I’ve always had a thirst for knowledge. Being able to learn from experienced professionals and see projects through from start to finish is incredibly rewarding.”
For both Aden and Holly, the ability to earn a salary while developing professionally has been crucial.
Holly said: “Not earning wasn’t an option for me. I’m so grateful for the opportunity I’ve been given. I’ve never been made to feel like my opinion doesn’t matter, and I don’t feel like just a number. I’ve been treated with respect from day one.”
Their experiences reflect a wider culture at Thomson Broadbent that prioritises long-term career development, trust and progression. Many team members have been with the business for a significant length of time, something both Aden and Holly see as a strong indicator of the company’s values.
Aden said: “I’d rather work hard now and see the rewards later in life. I’m learning all the time, surrounded by people who are driven and supportive, and I can really see a future here.”
Holly agreed, adding: “What I thought would be a temporary role has turned into a career. I’ve progressed so much in three years, and I genuinely enjoy coming to work. That says everything.”
As National Apprenticeship Week shines a spotlight on alternative routes into skilled professions, Thomson Broadbent says it remains committed to supporting people who want to build successful careers through practical experience, professional training and earning while they learn.
Outside of work, both Aden and Holly have busy lives beyond the office. Aden spends his free time at the gym, playing golf every Friday and modifying cars, interests that reflect the same hands-on approach he brings to his role. Holly enjoys reading fantasy fiction, exploring gothic architecture and visiting the seaside.
For more information visit thomsonbroadbent.co.uk