Flying the flag for apprenticeships in Glossop 

Two talented apprentices are flying the flag for the life-changing opportunities being offered by apprenticeship schemes in Glossop.

20-year-old Oliver Wood and 17-year-old Freya Minshull are urging others to join a scheme and kickstart their career, with their own experience having put them on the road to a rewarding future. 

Oliver and Freya both began their apprenticeship life at Specsavers Glossop, starting as optical assistants and working towards their apprenticeship level 3, which is equivalent to two A levels.   

Since starting their roles, they’ve both been popular figures at the locally owned and run Glossop store, with Oliver expected to complete his course this month. Freya is newer to the role and has been at the store for five months, expecting to complete her course early next year.

Oliver says: "I believe apprenticeships are very important and allow people who aren't sure what they want to do to get into a career without going to university. It allows you to build social and general life skills such as communication and time keeping. I would definitely recommend since you get to learn while working and getting paid."

Freya adds: "My apprenticeship has been a great opportunity to learn while working.  I enjoy learning on the job, and I feel that apprenticeships are a great way to gain experience while building a strong foundation for the future."

Specsavers is 2025 National Apprenticeship Skills Award Winner for the Large Employer category, while having a 98% pass distinction across all of its apprentices. It also holds the Princess Royal Training Award from 2024. 

Nawaz Moin, dispensing optician director at Specsavers Glossop, says: "Our award-winning apprenticeships at Specsavers are indispensable for our stores and for those eager to start a journey in the world of optics. The support we provide is unparalleled, and gaining a recognised qualification while you learn and earn is like having a perfectly fitted pair of glasses - transformative and essential for clarity in your career!"

For further information contact 01457 899560 or visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/glossop