From apprentice to assessor - Olly’s journey

10 Aug 2026

At Oxford Energy Academies (OEA), apprenticeships are about more than gaining qualifications. They are about building careers, developing confidence, and becoming part of a community that supports learners long after they complete their training.

Few stories demonstrate this better than our tutor Olly, who progressed from an apprentice to qualified plumber and heating engineer, and now works with us at OEA as an Assessor and Tutor.

Before entering the industry, Olly's journey was far from straightforward. After leaving sixth form, he enrolled on a motor vehicle course at college while working shifts at Costa Coffee. It was there that he met with a local plumbing company, which sparked an opportunity that would potentially take him into a career in the plumbing and heating industry.

When it came to choosing a training provider for his apprenticeship, Olly initially considered returning to the college he was already familiar with. However, based on their own positive experiences, his employer strongly recommended Oxford Energy Academy.

Reflecting on his experience, Olly shared:

"The only way I've ever really described OEA is like a community. Everyone you speak to knows exactly what you're talking about and understands the industry at all levels.”

For Olly, OEA provided a supportive environment where apprentices could ask questions, learn from mistakes, and gain the confidence needed to succeed in the plumbing and heating sector.

After qualifying in 2019, Olly went on to build a successful career in the trade, establishing himself through hard work, skill and dedication. However, in February 2023, his life changed dramatically following a serious accident that left him with multiple life-changing injuries.

Determined to rebuild his future following the accident, Olly found steadfast support from OEA. Richard, his former tutor and now Centre Manager, reached out to discuss potential opportunities within the academy. Recognising the wealth of experience he had gained in the industry, along with the determination that had carried him through his recovery, OEA offered Olly a new career path in education, providing the flexibility and support needed to help him thrive once again.

Today, Olly is a Level 3 Teaching Qualified Assessor and Cover Tutor at OEA. Drawing on both his industry experience and personal journey, he supports apprentices at every stage of their development through workplace assessments, portfolio reviews and one-to-one mentoring. Having successfully rebuilt his own career, Olly now plays a key role in developing the next generation of skilled engineers, helping learners gain the knowledge, confidence and practical skills needed to succeed in the industry.

Having won Apprentice of the Year during his own time at OEA, Olly understands first-hand the challenges apprentices face and the value of strong support and guidance. Combining his industry experience with remarkable resilience, he now inspires and mentors the next generation of engineers, proving that with determination and the right opportunities, successful new paths can emerge from even the most difficult circumstances.