Name: Molly McNaughton
Age: 20
Organisation & Description: Virgin Care is a health and care provider that has partnered with the NHS and local authorities since 2006. Our aim is to change lives by transforming health and care, and in 2020 we provided high-quality services to over half a million people, from 500 or so locations across England. The services we deliver include adult community services, children’s community services, primary care services including urgent care centres, sexual health services, dermatology services and MSK services.
Date Started the PR Apprenticeship: 09/01/2020
Date Finishes the PR Apprenticeship: 01/07/2021
What were you doing before your apprenticeship? I studied Politics, History and Drama A-Levels and worked part time as a Recreational Gymnastics Coach.
What attracted you to the PR Apprenticeship? I received an unconditional offer to study Multi-media journalism at university, but it didn’t feel like the right path for me. Although I wanted to develop my skills and knowledge, I was keen to take the first step onto the career ladder too. I realised I could do this through an apprenticeship, working and learning at the same time. The PRCA Apprenticeship offered me this opportunity, and I have no regrets about not going to university. I feel as though at school you are often pushed to believe that university is the only option, but there are so many different paths available.
What was the highlight of your PR Apprenticeship? Definitely receiving a Distinction as my overall grade. I have a tendency to doubt my ability to sometimes, so this was an extremely proud moment for me, I felt really accomplished that my hard work had paid off and I couldn’t quite believe it.
What do you feel your apprenticeship helped you achieve? My apprenticeship has allowed me to kickstart my career in an industry that I love. I have always been creative and enjoyed curating content, but the apprenticeship gave me the tools I needed to go one step further. Not only do I have a nationally recognised qualification, but I also have nearly 2 years’ experience in the workplace. I’ve met a lot of incredible people through my work and studies, even remotely due to the pandemic.
Top 3 skills a PR Apprentice needs:
- Excellent communication skills
- Organisation and prioritisation
- Initiative
I love PR because it allows me to be creative. I get to work with new people all the time and create some really interesting and engaging content.
What are your next steps? I am currently PR Officer at Virgin Care, taking on more responsibilities and working on some new and exciting campaigns and strategies.