Throwback Thursday: Sophie Orledge

This week, we catch up with Sophie Orledge whose journey from Winstanley has taken her to a thriving career as a Level 6 Technical Projects Engineer Apprentice at Schneider Electric. After completing her studies between 2023 and 2025, Sophie recently returned to College to speak to students about her experience of taking the apprenticeship route.

Sophie says:

“After finishing my A-levels at Winstanley College, I faced the big decision of what to do next. Like many, I considered the traditional university route, but I wanted something more practical—alongside academic learning. That’s when I discovered the degree apprenticeship pathway. It offered the best of both worlds: earning a salary, gaining hands-on experience, and still achieving a degree without the burden of student debt. Choosing this route has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made

As a Technical Project Engineer Apprentice, I experience six-month rotations across EcoFit, which includes Supply Chain, Spares & Repairs, Production, and Testing. EcoFit is particularly inspiring as it focuses on giving ageing equipment a new lease of life through low-carbon modernisation solutions, proving that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand.

The apprenticeship offers more than just technical skills, it provides financial independence, and job security, all while maintaining a student lifestyle. From networking at career fairs to completing virtual work experiences with companies like Siemens,

My biggest advice leaving College is to check out ‘Rate My Apprenticeship’, it’s a fantastic resource for finding opportunities. And don’t underestimate the power of networking! Speak to as many people as you can and make connections. Those relationships can take you a long way.”

Thank you for sharing your story with current students, Sophie. 

If you are a former student interested in joining our alumni network, please follow the link: Alumni - Winstanley College