Account Executive Lauren Cropper has completed her industry-leading apprenticeship programme and is now a fully qualified PR professional.

Lauren, who joined 1284 in July 2024,  has completed the PRCA Public Relations and Communications Level 4 programme.

She quickly became a central part of the team and its client work and is shortlisted for Apprentice of the Year at the 2026 Leicestershire Business Awards , having been a finalist in the same category at the Enterprising Women Awards a year earlier.

Over her first 18 months in the industry, Lauren has:

• Helped secure £8,000 of funding for a local CIC, including developing a business plan through her work with the Leicester Social Innovation Accelerator
• Taken on responsibility for 1284’s nonprofit accounts, creating and managing PR campaigns for local social enterprises
• Stepped into the role of Internal Auditor, supporting 1284’s successful move towards ISO 9001 certification
• Produced a sustainability action plan for 1284 after completing a climate leadership programme run by Greener Futures Leicester and the University of Leicester
• Learned and then led the implementation of new software systems to support a refreshed project management tool and company handbook

“Passing my apprenticeship feels like a real milestone, but it’s also just the start,” Lauren said.

“I’ve been able to learn, experiment and take on responsibility from Day One, and I want to keep building on that as a qualified practitioner.

“What’s made the biggest difference is being trusted to do work that matters - whether that's supporting local nonprofits or helping shape how 1284 operates. 

“It has shown me that an apprenticeship isn't only about training, it's about having an impact in the workplace as you learn. 

“I’d really encourage anyone considering an apprenticeship to go for it. You’re learning formally, but you’re also learning every day from colleagues, clients and live projects - and that combination has helped my confidence grow.”

Managing Director George Oliver added: “Watching Lauren, our first apprentice, progress from new starter to qualified professional has been one of the best success stories we’ve had at 1284 to date. 

“She’s shown how quickly an apprentice can become integral to client work and to the direction of the business.

“Apprenticeships are often talked about in terms of opportunity for young people - which is absolutely true - but they’re also a huge asset for employers. Lauren has brought fresh thinking, energy and new skills into 1284, and we’ve grown as a business because of it.

“Lauren’s journey underlines why we’re committed to apprenticeships as part of our growth. 

“If you give talented young people room to learn, try things and lead, they don’t just develop their own careers - they help you build a stronger, more resilient company.”