When north-east man Sean Stewart turned down the chance to go to university, and opted instead for a modern apprentice, his family were not impressed.
However, after seeing the opportunities made available during his work with engineering services provider Score, they quickly changed their mind.
When Mr Stewart was at Fraserburgh Academy, he took a particular liking to one subject.
And when he saw a modern apprenticeship advertised, which offered paid work, qualifications and also the chance to work in Dubai, he leapt at the chance.
The 25-year-old said: “I realised business and administration was something I enjoyed.
“I got the offer to go to university, but the idea of getting an apprenticeship, earning money and a qualification, appealed much more to me.”
His family came round to his decision when they discovered more about it.
He added: “Originally, they hoped I would go on to university or college.
“I don’t think they fully understood the benefits of taking the apprenticeship avenue.
“Once they began to learn more about my modern apprenticeship though, they were very happy for me.”
During his time with Score, he was given the chance to take part in purchasing, campaigning, planning and attending client meetings.
He was also able to spend 18 months in Dubai working with the company.
And Mr Stewart said: “I would never have got that chance if I hadn’t seen the modern apprenticeship advertised.
“All throughout my apprenticeship, there were opportunities to try new things. I made a lot of new friends as well, which always helps.”
By learning on the job, he made steady progress throughout his apprenticeship and felt ready to take on new challenges.
He added: “I’ve always found it easier to learn things by doing them.
“I was given great guidance during my time as an apprentice and it was a great way to learn by actually doing things.”
Keith Souter, safety valve division manager at Score, was full of praise for Mr Stewart’s “work ethic.”
He stat: “The various roles Sean was involved in during his apprenticeship required high attention to detail.
“The fact Sean had to learn three different roles during that time was testament to his work ethic and ability.”
