Genesis PR has taken a pioneering step in appointing its first PR apprentice. Ellie Brown, 18, has embarked on a 15-month apprenticeship and will be working towards a Level 4 diploma in Public Relations which is equivalent to a foundation degree.

Ellie, who joins Genesis after studying for 3 A-Levels at Northgate Sixth Form, said: “I decided university wasn’t for me and so was looking for vocational routes into PR. After enjoying a work experience placement at Genesis over the summer, I was thrilled to be offered an apprenticeship position and I’m really excited to become part of the team.

“I’m really looking forward to learning all about PR whilst working in the industry and earning at the same time. It’s a great opportunity and shows that university isn’t the only option.”

The apprenticeship training programme is provided through the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) whose trainer-assessor will visit Genesis regularly to give Ellie support with her development.

As well as completing a range of written assignments and attending training days and webinars, Ellie will work alongside the experienced Genesis team to gain all the necessary skills and industry knowledge needed to succeed in a career in PR.

Genesis PR’s director, Penny Arbuthnot, said: “Ellie showed us from the outset that she is a very bright young person with enormous potential and all the passion and creativity required for a very promising career in PR. The PR Apprenticeship provides an excellent framework to develop the relevant knowledge and skills which are applicable in our fast evolving sector.”

Genesis PR’s services include PR strategy, corporate communications and reputation management, with specialist expertise in integrated social media, digital marketing and SEO. The agency employs a team of 12 and works with clients across a variety of sectors including professional services, health and social care, education and training, technology, property, manufacturing and logistics.