#NAW2025 PR Apprenticeship Q&A session - Harriet Mountford, TALA

1.How have your apprentice’s newly developed industry skills benefited your business? 

Our apprentices have brought fresh ideas and perspectives to our team, while their newly-developed skills have enhanced our operational efficiency. Their training has allowed them to take on key tasks with confidence, directly contributing to client success and strengthening our service offering.

2. How do you feel your apprentice has contributed to your business? 

The apprentices have quickly become an integral part of our team. Their eagerness to learn and proactive approach has positively impacted our workflow, enabling us to tackle projects with greater agility. As their confidence has grown, their contributions have added more and more value. For instance, this year we launched On The Record, a campaign to create the UK’s first national memorial to journalists killed while reporting from the conflict zones. Lotta was instrumental in creating the website, setting up the fundraising mechanism, launching to media and communicating with stakeholders.

3.Has the apprenticeship promoted business growth? If so, how? 

Our talent development programme creates a pipeline of young people on development journeys, enabling us to expand our capacity while strengthening our team’s ability to deliver high-quality work for clients.

4. What is some advice you would give to an employer considering hiring an apprentice? 

Agencies and in-house teams that see themselves as doing the 'right thing' for the sector should hire a new apprentice every year. It is a valuable investment in both your business and the next generation of professionals. Providing them with the right training, mentorship, and opportunities to grow and the return in terms of their enthusiasm and skill development is invaluable.