Finding the right first step can make all the difference when it comes to building a career. For Kaya, that step came through an apprenticeship with Burnley Leisure & Culture — an opportunity that combined hands-on experience, community engagement and personal development.
“I stumbled upon the apprenticeship at BLC while actively searching for opportunities that combined my interest in community engagement with practical work experience. I remember feeling really excited when I saw the listing because it seemed like the perfect fit.”
That initial excitement quickly turned into a meaningful and formative experience. Kaya’s apprenticeship provided valuable insight into public service and highlighted the importance of community wellbeing, values that would go on to shape future career choices.
“The apprenticeship was truly a foundational step in my career journey. It gave me essential insights into public service and the importance of community well-being.”
Beyond qualifications, the apprenticeship offered something just as important: confidence. Working across departments, engaging with the public and being part of supportive teams helped Kaya develop strong communication, leadership and problem-solving skills.
“I also met some great people during the apprenticeship, who I still consider to be my friends.”
During this time, Kaya gained additional qualifications within fitness, particularly in gym environments. This experience led to continued work in the sector after the apprenticeship came to an end.
“The apprenticeship helped me gain greater people skills through working in teams and with the public within each department. It also gave me many qualifications within fitness, especially in the gym, which I continued to work in after the apprenticeship.”
The skills and experience gained through BLC proved highly transferable. Kaya successfully progressed into public service, completing a Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship and achieving a Level 6 degree in policing law.
“The skills I gained — such as problem-solving, communication and leadership — have been directly transferable to my role as a police officer. Having the apprenticeship qualification really helped when I applied.”
The confidence gained through the apprenticeship ultimately helped Kaya take another bold step — setting up Kaya Rae’s Pro Boxing, a boxing gym business in his hometown of Colne.
“This gave me the confidence and set my path towards my current position of running Kaya Rae’s Pro Boxing.”
Reflecting on the journey, it’s clear that Kaya’s apprenticeship with Burnley Leisure & Culture offered far more than on-the-job training. It provided direction, confidence and a strong foundation for a future rooted in community, wellbeing and ambition.
At Burnley Leisure & Culture, apprenticeships are about creating opportunities, helping people like Kaya discover his potential and take meaningful steps towards careers that make a difference.
