Choosing belief over expectation: Grace Burdett’s Apprenticeship Story in Tech
Choosing belief over expectation: Grace Burdett’s Apprenticeship Story in Tech
For Grace Burdett, choosing an apprenticeship wasn’t about following the expected path, it was about choosing the right one.
Now a Platform Engineer at IBM, Grace began her career through a Tech Industry Gold accredited apprenticeship, gaining real-world experience whilst developing the technical and professional skills that continue to shape her career today. Her journey is a powerful reminder that apprenticeships are not a second option, they are afirst-choice route into high-impact, future-focused careers in tech.Discovering a passion for tech
Grace’s interest in technology began at school, sparked by an early experience many young people never get.
“I started computer science in year nine and I had a female computer science teacher. I really enjoyed her lessons, one day it just clicked and I realised how cool coding was.”
Encouraged by that experience and supported by her dad who also works in tech, Grace continued with computer science at GCSE and A level. But when it came time to decide what was next, the traditional university route didn’t feel right.
“I’ve never really been attracted to university. I saw the price tag and thought, there’s nothing I’m passionate enough about to justify that cost.”
Choosing a different path
Despite pressure from school to apply for university, Grace trusted her instincts.
“I remember saying to my mum on a walk during lockdown, ‘I don’t want to do full-time university. I want to put all my eggs in this basket.’ It was scary, all my friends were getting offers and I had nothing, but I’m really glad I made that decision.”
Her choice wasn’t without challenge. Grace applied for more than 60 apprenticeships, navigating rejection, uncertainty, and self-doubt along the way.
“It was tedious and demoralising at times. You start thinking, what am I doing wrong? But it builds resilience, by the time I applied to IBM, my application had to be good.”
Learning by doing, and thriving
Grace joined IBM’s Client Engineering team as a Platform Engineer, working on proofs of concept and pilots that demonstrate the value of IBM technologies to real clients.
“We build minimal viable products and pilots to show clients the value IBM technology can bring. I’ve been in this role since the start of my apprenticeship in 2021.”
Learning in a live workplace environment transformed her confidence and capability.
“At school I learned Python, but I didn’t know what GitHub was. I remember being asked to review a pull request and thinking, I don’t even know what that means.”
Rather than being held back, Grace was supported.
“A colleague sat with me and broke everything down. That’s the difference, you’re learning what’s actually used in industry, not just theory.”
In her final year, Grace found the academic support especially valuable. She describes both her academic advisor and programme leadership as approachable, responsive, and genuinely invested in her success.
Alongside her role at IBM, Grace completed her academic learning through Northeastern University London, an experience she reflects on positively, particularly in terms of support and adaptability.
In her final year, Grace found the academic support especially valuable. She describes both her academic advisor and programme leadership as approachable, responsive, and genuinely invested in her success.
“Any question I had, it was never a problem. I never felt like I was inconveniencing anyone, the support was always there.”
Grace also benefited from time on campus for block learning and collaborative study with peers from her apprenticeship cohort, reinforcing a sense of community alongside her workplace learning. Together, the combination of academic guidance, peer support, and real-world application helped her grow in confidence and capability.
A turning point in confidence
One project marked a shift.
“It was the first time I was trusted to own something on my own. I didn’t think I was capable, and then I realised I was. That gave me belief in myself.”
Presenting her work back to a client was a defining moment.
“I knew exactly what I was talking about. That confidence carried into everything else I did.”
The value of Tech Industry Gold accreditation
Although Grace was aware her programme was Tech Industry Gold–accredited, its value became clearer as her career progressed.
“It’s reassuring to know that what you’re learning isn’t just decided by universities, employers are involved too. It means the skills are actually relevant to what’s happening in the workforce.”
For Grace, the strength of the apprenticeship came from the combination of learning, work, and employer involvement.
“You need both, the learning and the workplace. The accreditation makes sure you’re on track, and the job prepares you for the real world.”
Growing into a confident professional
Over four and a half years, Grace’s development has gone far beyond technical ability.
“When I started, I was incredibly shy. Now I’m presenting at conferences, talking to clients, supporting others. The apprenticeship helped me grow as a person, not just as an engineer.”
Today, Grace continues to enjoy her role at IBM and is exploring future opportunities, confident, capable, and open to what’s next.
“I love my job. I love coming to work. It’s one of the best decisions I’ve made.”
Advice for future learners
Grace’s message to anyone unsure about their next step is simple and empowering.
“Think about who you are and how you learn. Don’t follow trends or do what everyone else is doing. University and apprenticeships both exist for a reason, find what works for you.”
A message to employers
Grace is clear about the importance of continued investment in apprenticeships and accredited programmes.
“Apprenticeships allow experienced people to pass on knowledge and help new talent grow. You’re supporting someone into a real career, and that benefits the whole industry.”
Why Grace’s story matters
Grace’s journey highlights exactly whyTech Industry Gold accredited apprenticeships are so powerful:
- Industry-designed, employer-informed learning
- Real-world skills, applied from day one
- Confident, work ready talent entering the tech sector
During National Apprenticeship Week, and beyond, Grace’s voice reminds us that apprenticeships are astrong, credible, aspirational pathway into the heart of the tech industry.Explore more****Find out more about Northeastern University London's DTSP programme here.