From Self-Employed to Apprentice: Starting Again and Moving Forward
After a decade of running my own handmade jewellery business, I found myself at a crossroads. My daughter was getting older. I was ready for a new challenge. And quietly, cautiously, I wondered if I could finally pursue the career in tech I’d once been told I wasn’t experienced enough for.
Becoming an IT apprentice in my 40s wasn’t part of the original plan. But it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Why I Chose to Change
Self-employment had given me independence, creativity, and resilience. It allowed me to spend quality time with my child, and fit my work around my life rather than the other way around. I will forever cherish the time I was able to spend with my child, and I am thankful that self-employment allowed me to do this. But I was ready for more structure, a team environment, and the chance to learn something new. I’d always been drawn to technology and problem-solving, and I wanted to channel that interest into a long-term, fulfilling career.
Still, taking that first step wasn’t easy. Searching for apprenticeships as an adult can feel intimidating. Would I be taken seriously? Was I “too old” to start again? But the more I researched, the more I realised that apprenticeships were changing, and that there were more people like me than I thought.
Breaking Through the Fear
I’d love to say I made the leap fearlessly, but the truth is, imposter syndrome showed up more than once. I worried I’d be the oldest apprentice in the room (I was!). I wondered if people would think I didn’t belong (they didn’t!).
But I reminded myself: I wasn’t starting from nothing. I had two decades of experience in communication, customer service, time management, and problem-solving. I had persistence. I had drive. I just needed someone to give me a chance - and when that chance came, I ran with it.
The Skills That Came With Me
One of the most surprising parts of my journey? Realising just how many of my self-employed skills translated to IT support.
✅ Communicating clearly
✅ Staying organised
✅ Managing expectations
✅ Solving problems creatively
✅ Learning independently
All of those skills became invaluable in my apprenticeship, especially when supporting users, documenting processes, or juggling different requests at once.
Being self-employed taught me to take initiative and be accountable. Now, I bring that same mindset to my work every day.
What’s Different (And What’s Better)
The biggest difference? I don’t have to do it all alone anymore.
As an apprentice, I was surrounded by a supportive team, a mentor, and a structure that allows me to grow while still contributing. I’m still learning - constantly - but I’m also being challenged and trusted.
I didn’t lose my independence by joining a team. I gained collaboration, mentorship, and the ability to ask questions and improve.
Advice for Others Thinking About the Switch
If you’re self-employed and wondering if an apprenticeship could be your next step, here’s what I want you to know:
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It’s not too late. Your experience matters - and it can absolutely set you apart.
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You don’t have to have all the answers. Apprenticeships are about learning.
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Look for employers who value diverse backgrounds. Many do - and they’ll see your life experience as an asset.
Final Thought
I’m proud of the work I did as a self-employed business owner. But I’m equally proud of the decision I made to start again - to take a chance on something new, even when it felt uncertain.
Apprenticeships aren’t just for school leavers anymore!
Please feel free to connect with me on Linked In if you are thinking of a career change.