Meet Evie – Events Assistant Apprentice at Bletchley Park Museum

My name is Evie Spillings, and I am currently completing a Level 3 Events Assistant Apprenticeship with Creative Alliance at Bletchley Park Museum. As part of a small team, I help manage private and corporate events across this historically significant site.

I have a strong passion for event management, particularly in detailed organisation and logistics. I thrive in fast-paced environments where problem-solving, creativity, and precision come together to deliver seamless experiences.

Throughout sixth form, I applied to multiple universities and received offers, but as the time got closer, I realised deep down that it was not the right path for me. I felt like I was following the expectations of my peers and school rather than choosing what suited me. In the end, I decided to turn down my offers, knowing it would not make sense to move to a different city and commit to a course I was not genuinely excited about.

After some self-reflection, I realised that I have always valued my independence and the ability to support myself. Since turning 16 years old, I have worked alongside my studies and passing my GCSEs and A-Levels, and I knew I wanted to step into a more professional role rather than continue full-time education. At the same time, I did not want to stop learning. An apprenticeship felt like the perfect balance, as it gives me the chance to gain real industry experience while continuing to develop new skills in a career, I am passionate about.

A typical day in my apprenticeship is fast-paced and varied, which is something I really enjoy. My role involves a mix of planning, coordination, and firsthand event delivery. Some days, I might be attending client meetings or site visits, helping to organise logistics for upcoming events. Other days, I could be hosting events, whether that is a small private meeting or a large-scale conference.

Alongside my event work, I also have allocated hours to focus on my apprenticeship coursework, ensuring I am continuously developing my skills and knowledge. I work in the office throughout the week, but because events are unpredictable, no two days are ever the same.

Throughout my apprenticeship, I have had the opportunity to work on a wide range of incredible events that I am proud to have been a part of. Some of the highlights include assisting with a live BBC production of The Infinite Monkey Cage with Brian Cox, as well as supporting confidential government seminars and the National Intelligence History Conference. Being involved in events of this scale has been an amazing experience, allowing me to develop my skills in high-pressure environments while working with a variety of clients and stakeholders.

My apprenticeship has been a huge driver of self-growth, both professionally and personally.

Professionally, I have developed valuable skills in client and event management, as well as a strong understanding of what it takes to run a successful event. I have learned through hands-on experience alongside my talented manager, as well as through my coursework, which has helped reinforce and expand my knowledge with concrete industry insights.

Personally, I have seen a huge shift in my confidence, both in and out of work. Working in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment has pushed me to trust my own skills and decision-making. I have learned to handle challenges with a more proactive mindset, and I now feel much more self-assured in my abilities.

In terms of advice, I would say, from personal experience, that it is important to understand that an apprenticeship is not necessarily the “easy” option. When I chose this route over university, I initially felt some self-doubt, thinking I might be taking the easier path, due to the pressure to go to university. However, I quickly realised that an apprenticeship is still hard work. Balancing the workload with a full-time job is a significant commitment, but it pays off by providing the opportunity to develop highly valuable time management skills. It is a rewarding challenge that can set you up for long-term success in your career.

This apprenticeship has played a key role in shaping my career goals. Most notably, I have been offered a full-time job, which is a promotion within my current team, starting once my course finishes. This is a big step forward in terms of responsibility and financial growth, and it reflects the progress I have made throughout my apprenticeship. It is a great opportunity that allows me to continue developing my skills and moving up in the events industry, with plenty of potential for growth and new challenges ahead.

“Upon joining the apprenticeship directly from school, Evie quickly established herself as a dedicated and professional individual, eager to develop her expertise in event management. Throughout the programme, she consistently delivered high-quality coursework and effectively translated her theoretical knowledge into practical application. Her well-earned Distinction reflects her exceptional commitment and I am confident she will excel in her future event sector endeavours.”

Victoria Morris – Venues Curriculum Lead & Development Coach