For over 15 years, The HEX Group has proudly supported and developed apprentices across the business. Apprentices play a key role in shaping the business as it evolves, with many progressing into senior and management positions and continuing to inspire the next generation.

Today, we have 60 apprentices gaining real-world experience through hands-on learning, state-of-the-art technology, and industry frameworks, all while being fully immersed in the culture and values of The HEX Group.

Grace Williams plays a vital role in this success. As Apprentice Support Lead, Grace has spent the last two years guiding apprentices through their academic work and helping them integrate into the workplace.

No two days are the same for Grace. Her role is a dynamic mix of academics, personal support, and helping apprentices settle into the business in conjunction with their apprenticeship goals and standards. Whether it’s offering one-on-one guidance with coursework or working closely with managers to ensure apprentices are thriving, Grace is the constant support system they can rely on.

“I always knew I wanted to work in learning and development,” Grace shares, “but I didn’t want to be a traditional teacher. Supporting apprentices gave me the perfect balance – helping individuals who’ve chosen a different path from university, and working with them to reach their potential in a more practical, real-world setting.”

One of Grace’s proudest moments came recently when she saw eight apprentices successfully complete their Level 3 qualification and for the first time, their work received zero feedback from assessors. “It was such a proud moment,” she says. “And hearing from JCB Academy that this cohort was one of the best they’ve ever had was just the icing on the cake.”

Of course, supporting 60 apprentices at various stages in different roles isn’t without its challenges. Grace admits that the role has helped her grow personally and professionally. Known for her kind and approachable nature, she’s also had to become confident in handling more difficult or confrontational situations.

“Organisation is everything,” she explains. “With such a wide range of individuals, all requiring different levels of support, I’ve learned how important it is to be resilient and step back to assess situations properly. Every apprentice deserves the same level of care and attention because we’re helping to build the foundation of their future careers.”

Grace has played a key role in the continued success of The HEX Group’s apprenticeship programme. With a strong background in education. she brings a wealth of academic expertise that has directly contributed to the positive outcomes achieved by our apprentices.

Unlike many apprenticeship programmes where support is split between line managers, Grace is fully dedicated to apprentice wellbeing, learning, and development. This level of focused support has proven to be a vital asset in helping apprentices not only achieve their qualifications but also grow personally and professionally.

“Having Grace is like having a work sister – someone who’s always there when you need her, and who’s genuinely looking out for you.”

Her dedication has helped shape confident, capable professionals who are already making their mark at The HEX Group. Whether they need help with their qualifications or just someone to talk to, Grace is always in their corner and that’s what makes her such a vital part of the team.