Mary Sturrock, Payroll Coordinator, achieved the Payroll Administration Level 3 apprenticeship with an overall grade of Merit.
As we continue to celebrate apprentices during National Apprenticeship Week, Mary changed employers, mid programme, something that can feel uncertain for some learners. Her experience highlights how apprenticeships can remain flexible and supportive when circumstances change. In this short interview, Mary shares what motivated her to start the apprenticeship, the practical payroll skills she has developed, and what she is most proud of achieving.
What made you decide to start this apprenticeship?
I wanted to further expand my skills within payroll to prepare me for scenarios which may not necessarily occur often.
What new skills or knowledge have you gained that you didn’t have before?
I now know how to calculate someone’s pay manually without the assistance from a payroll system which calculated gross to NET payments automatically.
I also have gained further knowledge on legislation on employment, pensions and data protection.
What has surprised you most about doing an apprenticeship while working?
Having allocated ‘off the job hours’ to complete my coursework and training during my working hours.
Being able to use my knowledge gained through the apprenticeship to assist other members of my team.
What would you say are the key benefits of doing an apprenticeship?
Being able to have a qualification under your belt without having to sacrifice too much time from your day-to-day.
What has been your proudest achievement during the programme?
Achieving a Merit at my end point assessments.
Boosting my own confidence through practising key skills such as interviews.
If relevant: what did your End Point Assessment involve, and what did you gain from it?
A multiple-choice assessment
A professional discussion based on a portfolio of evidence: allowed me to expand my skills in a professional scenario. It was able to showcase my areas of expertise within payroll.
A project report: allowed me to reflect on all the knowledge gained through the experience.
If you won the lottery tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?
Depends on how much money, but let’s face it I would probably go off on a lavish holiday or cruise across the world.
Mary’s experience shows how apprenticeships can build practical, transferable skills while supporting confidence and professional development. Gaining recognised qualifications alongside day-to-day work allows staff to deepen expertise while continuing to contribute to their teams. Mary’s journey is a great example of how apprenticeships can support both personal growth and organisational capability. Want to know more? Email staffapprenticeships@sussex.ac.uk