An 18-year-old from Little Dunmow recently beat over 2,000 other applicants to be awarded a management apprenticeship with John Lewis.

Charlotte Williams, of Baynard Avenue, found out two weeks ago that she had been selected for the year-long position that will start next month.

Four apprenticeships in total, two at level two and two at level three, were offered by John Lewis and Charlotte will be based at Cambridge for her level three role with the company that begins on September 14.

It has been a busy time for the former head girl at Gosfield School, Halstead, who gained three A-levels in English literature, English language and use of maths last Thursday (August 13) and celebrated her 18th birthday a day later.

She said: “Everything has all of sudden just taken off. It’s a great opportunity and I’m really looking forward to starting in September.”

More than100 people were interviewed for the four roles and Charlotte said she felt the apprenticeship route was better suited to her than university.

“I did look at universities, but I’m more practically minded and wanted to work while studying. I also really wanted to go out and earn money and the apprenticeship enables me to do that.”

Charlotte worked weekends at Linsells general store in Felsted and spent a week’s work experience with John Lewis in the Easter holidays in April before beginning the interview process.

She said: “I think my previous retail management experience and leadership skills from being a head girl helped me gain the role. The company do not guarantee you a job at the end of the apprenticeship, but I am hoping to go into management at their head office.”