Meet the Sheehan Sisters: Embracing Degree Apprenticeships

After completing their studies at Esher Sixth Form College, sisters Abbie and Layla Sheehan both chose to pursue Degree Apprenticeships instead of the traditional university route.

Abbie Sheehan
School: Thamesmead

At Esher: 2019-2021
Subjects at Esher:
Business Studies
Economics
Sociology

Now: Sales Executive at Mondelez International

Abbie Sheehan standing next to the Mondelez sign at an Apprenticeship Exhibition

Layla Sheehan
School: Thamesmead

At Esher: 2022-2024
Subjects at Esher:
Business Studies
Economics
Mathematics

Now: Degree Apprenticeship in Sales at Samsung Electronics UK

Layla Sheehan standing in front of a plain white wall

Coming to Esher from Thamesmead School, they each studied Business Studies and Economics A Levels. We Business Studies and Economics A Levels. We caught up with them to find out more about Abbie’s apprenticeship at Mondelez International, where she looks after clients including Cadburys Biscuits. While Layla talked about her paid apprenticeship with Samsung while also taking her degree in Business Management Practice and Chartered Manager at Henley Business School.

Why did you choose Esher Sixth Form College?

Layla: “I chose Esher for its vast course offering and the wide range of extracurricular activities. There was so much to choose from!”

Abbie: “Esher’s strong academic reputation and the support offered was a big pull for me and the variety of courses convinced me that Esher would be a great place to study. I was able to select subjects that aligned with my interests and my future career goals.”

What were your course highlights at Esher?

Layla: “Wider Skills Week was a standout for me, especially the business workshop and mock assessment centre. The online numerical and psychometric tests and the group tasks really helped prepare me for my apprenticeship applications.”

Abbie: “I loved diving deep into the subjects I was passionate about and engaging in stimulating discussions and the interactive Business Studies lessons, where I first learned about Mondelez International, which is where I work now!”

How did your teachers inspire you?

Layla: “My teachers’ enthusiasm and belief in my potential made my learning experience positive and really helped me grow academically. Their support was crucial in my apprenticeship applications. They gave excellent advice and encouraged me to strive towards my goal.”

Abbie: “My teachers’ passion for their subjects made challenging topics interesting and accessible. Their encouragement and personalised feedback helped me push myself and gain confidence in my abilities.”

What are you doing now?

Layla Sheehan standing next to the Samsung sign at Samsung head office

Layla: “I am following a degree apprenticeship in sales at Samsung Electronics UK and currently working in the Display B2B Distribution department. Alongside working, I am taking a degree in Business Management Practice and a Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship qualification at Henley Business School.”

Abbie: “Like my sister, I also chose a degree apprenticeship when I left Esher. I have been at Mondelez International for the past three years now. I’ve gained practical experience and earnt a salary at the same time as studying for my degree in Business Management and a Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship (CMDA) qualification. This has allowed me to develop academically and professionally at the same time.”

What is a degree apprenticeship?

Layla: “A degree apprenticeship allows you to study towards a qualification while gaining practical experience working within the company. The company often covers the qualification fees and offers a salary.”

What have been your career highlights so far?

Abbie Sheehan with a group of Colleagues at a work event

Abbie: “Presenting to 300 sales people at our winter show was a big milestone for me. Also launching new products to market has been incredibly rewarding! I have been part of some amazing teams and I’m finding the job both challenging and extremely fulfilling.”