Aspiration Awards 2025: Apprentice of the Year - Carly Tait

The Apprentice of the Year category recognises an exceptional apprentice for their work, either within their workplace or in relation to their classroom-based learning. This year’s winner, 35-year-old Carly Tait, has excelled in both areas – earning a Distinction in her Level 2 Customer Service Practitioner apprenticeship with Learning Curve Group and progressing onto her Level 3. 

A career change driven by passion and determination 

After the birth of her son Jackson in 2020, Carly decided it was time for a career change. Although she had enjoyed a decade working in a supermarket, she aspired to a role that aligned more closely with her passion for helping others and offered more family-friendly hours. 

With the support of her family, Carly enrolled in a Level 2 Customer Service Practitioner apprenticeship and began working as a Customer Insight Apprentice at Broadacres Housing Association in 2023. 

Initially, Carly struggled with self-confidence, but with encouragement from her manager, Tracy Hughes, and her Learning Curve Group skills coach, Andy Wise, her belief in herself began to grow. She quickly found her stride – building strong relationships with Broadacres customers and exceeding her own expectations in her learning journey. 

Managing ADHD and overcoming challenges 

Carly has ADHD, which has presented challenges such as staying focused and organised. Nevertheless, she has developed strategies to support her learning and has remained determined throughout. 

She is passionate about sharing her journey to inspire others – especially apprentices who may be facing similar struggles. 

Andy Wise, Vocational Skills Coach at Learning Curve Group and Carly’s coach, adds: “Carly’s openness about her challenges and how she has managed to overcome them will no doubt resonate with many others and serve as a valuable resource for anyone thinking about starting an apprenticeship, particularly those with ADHD.  

“Sharing her experience further proves her desire to help others and her commitment to improving the lives of people around her. Her success is a fantastic example of how a positive mindset can help you overcome any challenge.” 

Making a lasting impact in her community 

Through her role at Broadacres Housing Association, Carly has embraced opportunities to contribute to her local community in Northallerton.  

One standout project was the transformation of a communal garden at Rivendale Extra Care residence. Working alongside fellow apprentices, Carly helped turn an overgrown, underused yard into a vibrant and welcoming space – complete with new planters and flowers, a refreshed seating area, and a birdbox – creating a garden that residents can enjoy and take pride in. 

Watch Carly's story and discover the moment she learned she was the Apprentice of the Year 2025:

This initiative showcased Carly’s teamwork and dedication to making a meaningful difference, and residents have shared how the renovated garden has transformed the atmosphere of the site. Many now enjoy spending time there on sunny days and take comfort in knowing it’s a beautiful, welcoming space for them to enjoy. 

“It’s clear that Carly cares deeply about those around her and is always willing to give her time and energy to improve the environment she’s part of,” shares Andy. 

The sky’s the limit 

When Carly first began her apprenticeship, she wasn’t confident that she could reach the highest standards. Yet, her determination paid off, resulting in her achieving a Distinction in her Level 2 qualification. 

“Carly has completely exceeded her own expectations – a testament to her hard work and willingness to push herself, even when some self-doubt crept in,” says Andy. “She’s become a role model for her peers and a valued member of the team at Broadacres Housing Association where she works and has completed her programme.” 

Following the completion of her Level 2, Carly has since enrolled in the Level 3 Customer Service Specialist apprenticeship – showing real drive to keep learning and pushing herself in her career. She hopes to land a full position at Broadacres upon completion. 

Carly’s learning journey has been very inspiring, and she has shown incredible growth, commitment, and passion for both her personal and professional development, whilst also balancing this with her family life. 

Congratulations Carly! To read more inspirational stories from this year’s award winners, visit our Aspiration Awards 2025 page. 

Pictured: Our Apprentice of the Year 2025 winner Carly Tait (L), with her manager, Tracy Hughes (R)