FROM HNC TO THE BBC: NIAMH SECURES DREAM NEXT STEP APPRENTICESHIP
27.03.2026HNC is delighted to reveal that A Level student Niamh R has secured her dream next step – a Level 4 Procurement and Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship at the BBC!
Students at HNC are supported to become their best selves through and educational, enriching and enlightening experience that is designed to ensure that they are able to progress to their next steps with confidence, whatever those next steps may be. While the majority of students at HNC opt to progress to university, an ever-increasing number aspire to secure an apprenticeship after College. HNC student Niamh, who is in her final year of studying for A Levels in Business Studies, English Language and Literature and History, has recently secured an apprenticeship with the BBC. Below, we hear from Niamh about her journey from HNC to the BBC.
How did you decide to pursue an apprenticeship?
For me, an apprenticeship was always my preferred option, even though I did apply to university to keep my options open. In year 12 and 13 I spoke to the Careers and Work Experience team, who supported me with a range of resources showcasing the different types of apprenticeships available, and the companies that were currently recruiting.
How has HNC supported your journey?
Throughout the application process I had regular meetings with the Careers team who helped prepare me with advice on the application and interview process. I also attended the ‘Apprenticeship Ready’ enrichment which provided me with further support and advice. Once I reached the interview stage of the process, I spoke to my Business Teacher about the industry and the specifics of my role as this was something we had recently studied and I wanted to stand out in my interview by showcasing my knowledge.
What degree apprenticeship are you progressing to?
I am progressing to a Level 4 Procurement and Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship at the BBC – this is a role that will eventually see me managing the end-to-end process of buying goods and services, controlling inventory and managing supplier relationships.
What was the application and interview process like?
The application process was tough but the help and advice I got from people around me at HNC definitely made it a lot easier! The first stage involved an online application, with the second stage involving an online personality and skills test. The next stage was an online interview which focused on questions such as leadership skills, my future career aspirations and the reasons I wanted to work at the BBC. Then followed an online interview with the other applicants – I was put into a group with 4 other people, where we were tasked with researching our own departments, such as BBC Sounds or Sport, and coming up with ideas on how to improve these areas, and mid-way through we were asked how to improve each department collectively. The final stage involved a face to face interview. Whilst the process was challenging, I learned a lot about myself and was confident that this apprenticeship was the right role for me to progress to.
What are your top tips for students wanted to follow a similar route?
My advice for anyone hoping to progress to an apprenticeship after HNC is to do your research! Look into the company, research the skills you would need for the role and make sure you understand exactly what and who they are looking for. Always be interested and make sure you ask plenty of questions. And importantly, take advantage of the support that’s on offer at HNC!
Ben Wise, HNC Careers Advisor, shares more “I am incredibly proud of Niamh for securing an amazing role at the BBC. She shined in an interview and secured the position against hundreds of other applicants because she worked hard to ensure that she was putting her best foot forward. Niamh truly embodies the College’s motto of become your best self. There is an incredible range of support and experiences on offer at HNC, whether that is taking part in enrichment, participating in work experience or joining me for a bespoke careers appointment – and for students who engage with the opportunities on offer, the possibilities are truly endless. Congratulations to Niamh for securing her dream next step”.
Interesting in applying for an Apprenticeship after College? See Teams to book a careers appointment to make a head start on progression plans.
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