'I Wanted to Do It Right': A learner's perspective

On a bright spring morning at Hachette Distribution, Goods In Supervisor Owen Norton reflects on a journey that began with curiosity and ambition, and ended in achievement and transformation. Having recently completed his Level 3 Team Leader apprenticeship with distinction, Owen's story is one of steady progress, valuable insights, and a renewed sense of confidence.

"I started as a temp back in 2019," Owen shares, "and over time I moved up, first to Team Leader, then to my current role. But I wanted to keep pushing forward and learn how to manage properly. Not just from experience, but with real knowledge behind me."

That motivation led Owen to Intec's apprenticeship programme, which he completed in just 16 months; two months ahead of schedule. "It covered so much: leadership styles, emotional intelligence, giving feedback, even time management. I found out I learn visually and that I lead democratically, which helped me understand how I operate, and how to improve."

Like many learners returning to study while working full-time, Owen admits it wasn't always easy. "I doubted myself when it came to presenting," he recalls. "And at the start, remembering everything was a challenge. But the tutors were brilliant. Carrie was approachable, explained things in simpler ways, and Steve's feedback on my mock exam really helped me prepare."

One of the standout elements for Owen was the opportunity to develop emotional intelligence. "It's something I use every day now," he says. "Understanding people, reading situations, and knowing how to approach things calmly - it's a big part of the job."

Owen's apprenticeship also opened up opportunities to engage with other departments. "I enjoyed visiting Woodlands and McKeys, it gave me a different perspective and helped with my off-the-job learning hours. Those experiences made it more than just coursework; they made it real."

When asked what made the biggest difference in his journey, Owen is quick to highlight the value of structure and self-discipline. "As soon as you're set a task, get it done. Don't let it build up and be open, really open, to learning something new."

Finishing the apprenticeship brought more than just a certificate. "Getting that distinction felt amazing," he says. "The whole process gave me more belief in myself. I'd 100% do it again."

Looking ahead, Owen has big ambitions. With his Level 3 qualification now in hand, he's setting his sights on a management role, and possibly a Level 4 apprenticeship in project management. "I want to run a site and lead a bigger team," he says. "Now I've got the foundation to do that."

So what would he say to someone thinking about doing an apprenticeship?

"Make sure you're motivated. But honestly, it makes you a better team leader and manager. It gives you time to reflect, step back from the shop floor, and think about how to get the best out of people. I'd recommend it to anyone."

Owen Norton's apprenticeship experience with Intec is more than just a personal success. It's a clear example of how apprenticeships equip employees with practical skills, confidence, and perspective that benefit both the individual and the wider business.