Paignton apprentice Ellie says hands-on learning is ‘the best way to learn’

The Ocean BMW apprentice says learning on the job has boosted her confidence and skills, as more local businesses are urged to come forward

Gareth Watton, Head of Business at Ocean BMW in Paignton, with apprentices Ellie Prettyjohns (right) and Poppy (seated)

Reporter:

Lucy Baker-Kind, SDC

29 Jan 2026 9:00 AM

Email:

torbayweekly@clearskypublishing.co.uk

Hiring apprentices has many benefits for both the employer and the young person, says South Devon College, who launched its 100 Apprenticeships in 100 Days campaign last year.

The Paignton-based college wants to encourage local businesses to step forward and hire an apprentice. There are currently more than 200 young people waiting to start an apprenticeship.

One of the many benefits of hiring an apprentice, according to Gareth Watton, Head of Business at Ocean BMW in Paignton, is what they bring to the business.

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“The benefit of ‘growing our own’ talent is so important,” explained Gareth. “Not only do we have the opportunity to work with outstanding young people who are enthusiastic and keen to learn, but we also have the chance to shape them as young adults and provide the experience, skills and knowledge to make them into successful team members for the future.”

The automotive specialists currently has two apprentices, Ellie and Poppy, and one other, on the BMW UK programme.

Ellie Prettyjohns, 21 and from Paignton, is enrolled on the automotive apprenticeship and says she always helped her dad doing jobs on bikes, cars and boats. “I wanted to learn a lot more in depth about how everything works and be able to work on my own car.”

Ellie says she’s really enjoying studying at South Devon College, as part of her apprenticeship.

“The support and knowledge the tutors give you is incredible,” she said. “I’ve been at South Devon College for five years now and the learning is very in-depth but also worked around you, how you learn and if you want to learn more.”

And the mix of college learning with real-life hands-on experience says Ellie is really beneficial.

“I learn better with real-life hands-on experience. You learn a lot at College but with the real-life experiences in the workshop, with real customers, you learn a lot of different ways to do things and complete work.”

Gareth agrees that the apprenticeship offers a great way to learn.

“From the technical side of things, the BMW product is incredibly advanced, so the apprentices really are working on the very best engineering available to them. They have an abundance of knowledge around them with the rest of our technicians who are all keen to assist where they can.

“Ellie and Poppy get classroom learning with the College, hands-on learning doing work with us, and the safety net of the rest of the team to support them. There is no better way for them to learn.”

And for anyone considering doing an apprenticeship Ellie says do it. “It may seem a bit daunting in the beginning, but it's a good way to get a job when you’re qualified, especially in a place you feel comfortable.”

Her thoughts are echoed by Gareth who says for anyone who is truly passionate about exploring a particular trade or career then an apprenticeship is one that they should consider.

“To work, earn and learn all at the same time (whilst not building any debt) is a fantastic opportunity and will set them up for adult life really well,” he said.

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