During National Apprenticeship Week, Adopstar, a prominent Cullompton-based ad operations, media, and marketing company, received noteworthy commendation from Robert Halfon, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Skills, Further and Higher Education. The company, recognized for its exceptional apprenticeship program, hosted Mr. Halfon, showcasing its achievements and the diverse levels of apprentices working within its ranks, from level two to master’s level seven.

Mr. Halfon's visit aimed to understand Adopstar's success in becoming a leading apprenticeship employer, noting the company's effective use of apprenticeships to enhance its workforce and services. "It’s a small business, but it’s an example of a small business utilizing the apprenticeship offerings," Mr. Halfon remarked, impressed by the quality and range of apprenticeships offered by the company.

Theresa Benson, managing director of Adopstar, expressed her delight in hosting the visit, emphasizing the importance of apprenticeships to the company's growth and culture. Since starting to hire apprentices in 2016, Adopstar has grown its program to include 24 apprentices, contributing significantly to the company's development and the professional growth of its employees. Many of these apprentices have progressed within the company, with some attaining senior positions, illustrating the program's success.

Apprenticeships at Adopstar cover a wide range of areas, including digital marketing and management, aligning with Mr. Halfon's advocacy for apprenticeships as pathways to skilled jobs and opportunities. Highlighting the adaptability and breadth of apprenticeship programs, Mr. Halfon pointed out, "You can do an apprenticeship in anything from aeronautical engineering to zoology... It’s the best thing you could do."

The apprentices themselves shared their positive experiences and the impact of the apprenticeship on their careers. From gaining confidence and skills to progressing within the company, the apprentices highlighted the advantages of earning while learning and the opportunities for career advancement that apprenticeships offer.

Adopstar's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture was also noted as a key factor in its success. The company supports continuous learning and development, offering opportunities for apprentices to undertake multiple programs and even pursue degree courses.

As Adopstar continues to innovate and expand its apprenticeship program, the visit from Mr. Halfon not only acknowledges the company's achievements but also serves as an inspiration for other businesses to explore the benefits of apprenticeships. The story of Adopstar and its apprentices underscores the value of hands-on learning and development in building a skilled and dedicated workforce, ready to face the challenges of the future.