Wigan borough apprentice encourages others to follow in her footsteps during National Apprenticeship Week 2026
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An apprentice from Leigh who works at Amazon’s fulfilment centre in Bolton is encouraging others to become an apprentice and pursue their dream career during National Apprenticeship Week 2026 (February 9 to 15).
Flavia Scheul is taking part in the Amazon Apprenticeship programme and is sharing her story to encourage others to consider an apprenticeship.
She is completing a Chartered Management Degree Level 6 apprenticeship through Manchester Metropolitan University, starting in 2023 and due to graduate in July 2026.
Flavia studied Romanian and German literature and qualified as a teacher in Romania, before completing a master's degree in multicultural literature with a dissertation in African feminism.
In 2019, she moved to the UK briefly to earn money for her wedding and joined Amazon in an entry level role before returning home.
She returned to Amazon in 2020 and has progressed steadily ever since, becoming a process assistant, then team leader, and eventually area manager.
She said: “I had been with Amazon for a few years when, in 2023, one of my managers encouraged me to go for a Chartered Management Degree through the Amazon Apprenticeship programme.
"To be honest, I didn't know much about apprenticeships at first, but looking into how I wanted to progress, it felt like the next natural step.
"Whilst my literature background helped with general knowledge, when it came to managerial roles, I did feel that I needed some support to move in that direction.”
Flavia works night shifts and completes her apprenticeship studies during the day.
“I love it. I adore every bit of it. It can be tricky at times to balance both work and the apprenticeship, but every module I've done, I've put something into practice.”
Flavia has also launched the Eastern Europeans at Amazon employee-leg group in Amazon buildings across Greater Manchester.
She and her fellow volunteers planned for 40 Amazon employees to join, and within three days, they had 67 members.
“If I’d never taken part in an apprenticeship, I wouldn't have the confidence to do that. I was a very shy person, English wasn't my first language. Studying in English really pushed me forward.”
Her advice for others considering an apprenticeship is enthusiastic.
“Just go for it. Be brave, be curious. It might feel scary - it's a commitment - but it'll pay forward so much. It'll open so many doors you haven't even imagined exist. When I joined the apprenticeship programme, I opened 10,000 other doors for my future.
“I think I can see myself at 50 years old and still being with Amazon. Amazon gives you so many opportunities. It feels that you have so many chances to progress.”
The Amazon Apprenticeship programme is recognised as one of the UK's top three apprenticeship schemes by the Government’s Department for Education.
Young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) can also take advantage of the Amazon Supported Internship programme.
Launched in 2021, the initiative combines classroom learning with practical work experience; helping interns develop essential skills in English, Maths, and CV writing, while gaining hands-on experience across three operational job functions.
Pay at Amazon starts from £13.95 or £14.96 per hour depending on location, equating to between £29,037 and £31,116 annually.
Additionally, from day one, all employees are offered a comprehensive benefits package including private medical insurance, life assurance, income protection, and an employee discount.