Former student Sienna Turner, who left BES after her GCSEs in 2024, is now nearing the end of her Level 3 Business Administrator Apprenticeship with SBC Training in Shrewsbury and local firm Choctilly.
Sienna’s journey with Choctilly began long before her apprenticeship. At just 14, she joined the Much Wenlock shop for Saturday work, then later for her Year 10 work experience. The artisan chocolate business, founded in 2021 by owner Natalie Parks, quickly became a place where Sienna’s talent and enthusiasm could shine.
From the very beginning, Natalie recognised her potential and has supported her growth ever since – helping her build confidence, develop her skills, and understand how a successful small business operates.
Hands-On Experience Across the Business
Throughout her apprenticeship, Sienna has gained wide-ranging experience in HR, marketing, finance, and customer service. At Choctilly, she has worked closely with clients, helped deliver workshops and events, supported new product launches, and contributed to the day-to-day running of the business.
Her hard work has paid off: her portfolio is of an exceptionally high standard, and she is on track to achieve a top grade.
Sienna is currently working on her final apprenticeship project—collaborating with a private chef to create an exclusive line of chocolates for his clients. The project brings together everything she has learned at SBC Training and at Choctilly.
Reflecting on her experience, Sienna says: “The apprenticeship has allowed me to take on real responsibility and experience every part of the business. Working with clients, helping at events, and seeing how everything comes together behind the scenes has taught me so much.”
She adds: “The flexible support from SBC Training, combined with Natalie’s guidance, has helped me grow professionally. I’m really excited about my final project – it feels like the perfect way to bring all my learning to life.”
Flexible Training and Personal Development
SBC’s flexible, part-time training option has allowed Sienna to balance her apprenticeship with her other interests, including teaching piano and volunteering. With regular guidance from her trainer and pastoral support from the wider team, she has been able to develop professionally while still pursuing the things that are important to her outside of work.
Choctilly owner Natalie Parks says: “I spotted something special in Sienna right from the start. Her enthusiasm and commitment have been incredible, and she’s grown in confidence with every new challenge. She’s developed skills across all areas, from working with customers to managing events, and it’s been a joy to see her progress. She has a very bright future ahead.”
An Opportunity for Bridgnorth Endowed Students
Looking ahead, Natalie has a space opening up for a new Business Administration Level 3 apprenticeship at Choctilly, and first-refusal is being offered specifically to students from Bridgnorth Endowed.
This opportunity, which has helped Sienna thrive, combines real workplace experience with structured training and is ideal for students completing their GCSEs this summer or starting in September. It provides a meaningful and practical route into the world of business for motivated school leavers.
