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From apprentice to tutor: Ben Vann’s journey with Chesterfield College

13 November 2026
Ben Vann - tutor

Having started his career as an apprentice at Chesterfield College, Ben Vann has come full circle. Now working as an Electrical Work-based Tutor, he is helping other apprentices develop their skills, gain qualifications and take the next steps in their careers.

Ben’s journey is a great example of how an apprenticeship can open doors, with his own experience now helping him support others as they begin their careers in the electrical industry.

From apprentice to tutor

Having completed his apprenticeship at Chesterfield College, Ben understands first-hand what it takes to balance learning with developing practical skills in the workplace.

Moving into his current role as an Electrical Work-based Tutor has allowed him to share that experience with apprentices, supporting them throughout their training and helping them work towards completing their own qualifications.

Ben said: “Having been an apprentice myself, I know how important the right support and guidance can be. I understand some of the challenges apprentices face, so being able to use my own experience to help others is really rewarding.”

The move into teaching and supporting apprentices has allowed Ben to stay connected to the industry while taking on a new challenge.

He added: “It’s great to see apprentices develop in confidence and ability as they progress through their apprenticeship. Seeing them achieve their qualifications and knowing you’ve played a part in helping them get there is one of the best parts of the job.”

A college that feels like home

Returning to Chesterfield College as a member of staff has given Ben the chance to experience the college from a different perspective.

Having once been supported as a student, he now plays an important role in providing that same encouragement to others. He also values the welcoming environment and the people he works alongside.

“Coming back to work at the college has been a really positive experience. I’ve always felt supported here, and since joining the team, I’ve felt part of the college family. It’s a great place to work, and I genuinely enjoy being part of it.”

For Ben, the opportunity to give something back to the college that helped him start his career makes his role particularly meaningful.

Inspiring the next generation

Ben’s story highlights the opportunities that can come from choosing to study at Chesterfield College, as well as the different career paths that can develop from that first step.

Now, as an Electrical Work-based Tutor, he is helping the next generation of apprentices build their knowledge, confidence and skills, just as he did during his own time at college.

Interested in starting your own career through an apprenticeship? Find out more about the apprenticeships available at Chesterfield College and take your first step towards a future in your chosen industry.