As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, we’re shining a spotlight on Ben Cottingham, Housing Officer (C&SH Lead), whose apprenticeship journey shows how powerful learning on the job can be.
Ben joined Hightown almost ten years ago through the Graduate programme and quickly found himself “bitten by the housing bug.” After moving into the general needs housing team, he took on several lead roles, including resident involvement and ASB, before stepping into Care and Supported Housing three years ago – a move that opened the door to new challenges and opportunities.
“No two days are the same in my role,” Ben says. “I’m often zipping between our supported housing services to meet tenants and staff, which is something I still look forward to every day.”
Ben chose a level 3 Housing and Property Management apprenticeship as a way to formalise his experience while continuing to work. A natural learner, he was drawn to the flexibility and practical nature of the programme.
“I liked that the apprenticeship fitted into my working week and allowed me to reflect directly on what I do day-to-day,” he explains. “It really felt like the best of both worlds.”
Professionally, Ben says the apprenticeship has had a huge impact on his confidence and approach to work. From developing his presentation skills to strengthening written and verbal communication, the learning has helped him grow in ways his role alone might not have offered.
“The biggest change has been my confidence,” Ben shares. “Even recording what I’ve learned from everyday tasks has helped to shift my perspective and boosted my enthusiasm.”
Balancing learning with a busy workload hasn’t been easy - especially in a role where priorities can change quickly. Ben admits that fitting in learning hours was initially daunting, but consistency proved key.
“I’ve learned that even routine work counts towards development,” he says. “Blocking out regular time and staying organised has made all the difference.”
Beyond professional growth, the apprenticeship has reignited Ben’s love of learning personally too – from reading for pleasure to brushing up on his German.
For anyone considering an apprenticeship, Ben's advice is to explore options and take the leap.
“Undertaking a qualification is a big commitment, but you quickly see the benefits,” he says. “The learning is engaging, the work is rewarding, and there are more ways to study through work than people realise.”
Ben’s journey is a great example of how apprenticeships truly deliver #SkillsForLife – building confidence, capability and careers.
