From Apprentice to HSE Assistant: Charlotte Hatch’s Journey at Ringway

In 2025, Charlotte spoke about her experience as a Health and Safety Apprentice, you can watch the fulll video here

 

 

In December, Chalotte completed her Apprenticeship and started her new role as Health and Safety Assistant for Gloucestershire and Worcestershire. We caught up with Charlotte to talk about her career journey.

 

Q: What was your career and education journey like leading up to your apprenticeship?

“I completed my A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Psychology, originally planning to study medicine. Over time, I realised that path wasn’t quite right for me. I worked as a restaurant supervisor while figuring out my next steps, and my cousin, who works in Health and Safety, inspired me to explore the field.

My first Health and Safety role was at a large car dealership, alongside a business administration apprenticeship. Unfortunately, the experience itself was very negative. Although it knocked my confidence, it confirmed that Health and Safety was the right career for me- I just needed the right environment. This led me to Ringway as a HSE apprentice, where I’ve been able to grow and progress in a supportive environment and am now in a HSE Assistant role."

 

Q: Which skills did you develop during your apprenticeship?

"One of the biggest things I gained from my apprenticeship was a really broad skill set, because no two weeks were ever the same.

I developed strong communication and presentation skills, improved my organisation and time management, and learnt how to work both independently and collaboratively across multiple teams. My confidence grew massively as I was able to apply what I was learning through my course directly into real operational work.

Some of the key tasks I took on (and still do now) included:

• Managing the Occupational Health and D&A programme in Gloucestershire,
• Supporting development of our new health and safety system,
• Analysing incident and near miss data,
• Leading innovation trials,
• Assisting with investigations,
• Carrying out site audits and inspections

I also had the opportunity to contribute beyond my core role by joining the Early Careers Women Network as an Events Coordinator and creating a structured placement plan which is now being used to onboard new starters/members? These experiences have helped me build confidence and really feel part of the wider business."

 

Q: Were you offered a role after completing your apprenticeship?

"Yes! I was offered the role of HSE Assistant for Gloucestershire and Worcestershire on completion of my apprenticeship, which was a really proud moment for me."

 

Q: Now that you’re a HSE Assistant, what are your personal and professional goals?

"I’m continuing my development through Level 6 studies (the equivalent of a bachelors degree), with the long‑term goal of becoming chartered.

In my new role, I’m working closely with senior management across Gloucestershire and Worcestershire, taking on more leadership responsibility and contributing to the wider HSE team. I’m excited to deepen my understanding of how each contract operates and to continue building strong relationships across the business.

Some of my key goals include:

• Completing regular safety tours and site audits each month
• Increasing near‑miss reporting
• Sharing best practice and learning across contracts

I’m passionate about driving continuous improvement and supporting a positive, proactive safety culture."

 

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a Ringway early careers opportunity?

"My biggest piece of advice is to go for it with a willingness to learn and say yes to opportunities that come your way- even the ones that feel slightly outside your comfort zone.

Ask questions, get out on sites, spend time with different teams, and take every opportunity to understand how the business works. The more curious you are, the more you’ll get out of the experience.

Don’t underestimate the value of building relationships either. The people around you will become your biggest source of learning, support, and confidence. Whether it’s your mentor, your manager, or the operatives on site, everyone has something to teach you.

And finally, back yourself. Early career roles are designed to help you grow. If you’re willing to put the effort in, Ringway will invest in you, challenge you, and give you the space to build a career you can be genuinely proud of."

 

Inspired by Charlotte’s story? Discover check out our Early Careers vacancies and #CreateYourNextMove with Ringway