A BRADFORD district mother has proven age is no barrier after she completed an apprenticeship.

After over 20 years, Keighley mum Jyoti Patel, 56, returned to a career in procurement - starting at the base level at Jet2 in 2022.

Jyoti made the tough decision to step away after the arrival of her second child in 1999.

The full-time mum retrained as a secondary school teacher, in the hope that she could continue to care for her two children. 

After ten years of working as a teacher, Jyoti decided to return to her first career when her second child headed off to university.

Jyoti said: “When my second child headed off to university, the opportunity arose for me to start thinking about picking up my career where I had left it many years previously.

"Despite hesitations, I embraced the opportunity and started applying for positions.

"I decided on an apprenticeship, as I wanted to learn on the job and receive an income at the same time.

"After facing multiple rejections, due to my absence from the field, Jet2.com and Jet2holidays offered me a job through their Apprenticeship scheme.

"I initially thought that apprenticeships were just for younger people, but I now realise that they’re for any age.”

As part of her role at Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, which provides the opportunity to gain practical work experience and professional training, Jyoti successfully passed her Charted Institute of Procurement and Supply qualification.

Jyoti added: “I initially had reservations about studying again at this stage in my life, but soon realised that I was thoroughly enjoying the challenge of learning, and my confidence grew with every exam I passed.

"This was my stepping stone to a career as a Procurement Buyer, which I have waited to progress for a long time.”

Speaking about her experience as an apprentice at Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, Jyoti said: “Jet2’s apprenticeship scheme shattered stereotypes, welcoming me with open arms.

"Their inclusive policies and unwavering support have made me feel like I'm in 'employment heaven.' I'm excited about the positive career progress that lies ahead.”

Katie Rankin, Emerging Talent and Careers Manager at Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “Whilst many people associate apprenticeships with young people, at Jet2.com and Jet2holidays we are keen to foster an apprenticeship programme that welcomes people of all ages and proves there is no upper age limit.

"Jyoti is a fantastic example of how apprenticeships are a great vehicle for helping people to retrain."