A year ago, we met Cherub Samuel, who was completing her Level 3 Insurance Practitioner apprenticeship with Protector Insurance. At the time, Cherub spoke about choosing an apprenticeship over university to gain hands-on experience and start building her career straight away. Now, after successfully completing her apprenticeship with a Distinction, we caught up with her to see where her journey has taken her next.
Completing Her Apprenticeship with Confidence
Cherub completed her apprenticeship in July, achieving a Distinction and gaining valuable industry knowledge alongside practical workplace experience. Looking back, she remains convinced that choosing an apprenticeship was the right decision for her.
"I always felt that university wasn't the right route for me. An apprenticeship gave me the chance to learn while working and apply my knowledge straight away."
Growing in Responsibility
Since completing her apprenticeship, Cherub has continued her career with Protector Insurance as a Liability Claims Handler on the Commercial Team. While her job title has remained the same, her responsibilities have grown significantly.
She now manages her own caseload from initial notification through to settlement or claim denial and acts as a key contact for some of the company's largest clients.
"Before, there was a lot of support from more experienced handlers. Now I'm trusted to manage claims myself and be the main point of contact for some of our biggest policyholders. It's a lot more responsibility, but I feel ready for it."
Developing New Skills
One of the biggest changes Cherub has seen in herself is her confidence.
A year ago, she spoke about developing her communication skills. Today, she regularly leads meetings with policyholders and works directly with clients and legal professionals.
"I'll set up Teams meetings and discuss claims directly with policyholders. That's something I never could have pictured myself doing when I started."
Continuing to Learn
Cherub's learning journey hasn't stopped with her apprenticeship. In January, she will begin studying towards her Diploma in Insurance (Dip CII), with ambitions to progress even further within the profession. Protector Insurance is supporting her development through study time and mentoring from experienced colleagues.
"There's a lot of support. If I have questions, there are people around me who are happy to help and support my development."
Looking to the Future
Cherub hopes to progress into loss adjusting, a role that would allow her to investigate claims on-site, meet clients and provide specialist advice.
She is also passionate about supporting new apprentices joining the business and helping them settle into working life.
"I know what it's like to start as an apprentice and how overwhelming it can feel. It's important to help people feel welcome and supported."
Advice for Future Apprentices
When asked what advice she would give to someone considering an apprenticeship, Cherub's message was simple:
"Don't be scared of not following the traditional route. You're going to get to the same place and maybe even get there quicker. Do what's best for you, not what everyone else is doing."
Having completed her apprenticeship, secured a permanent role, taken on greater responsibility and started planning her next professional qualification. From apprentice to trusted claims professional, Cherub's journey demonstrates how apprenticeships can accelerate career development, build confidence and create valuable progression opportunities for both learners and employers.
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