Why I swapped a classroom for a career

Not everyone thrives in a traditional classroom—and Kaydyn Kent is living proof that success doesn’t have to start with a university degree. After a year at college left him uninspired and unsure of his future, Kaydyn took a bold step: he left the classroom behind and stepped into the world of apprenticeships. What started as a leap into the unknown with Specsavers turned into a journey of growth, confidence, and career clarity.

Now a triple-distinction achiever and nominee for a National Apprentice of the Year award, Kaydyn’s story is a powerful reminder that learning by doing can lead to incredible things. Here’s how he turned curiosity into a career—and why he believes apprenticeships are one of the smartest moves a young person can make.

The classroom environment wasn’t for me

“When I finished school, I did what most people expected - I went to college. But after a year, I realised it just wasn’t for me. Sitting at a desk, copying notes from a laptop, and not really learning - it felt like I was just going through the motions. I wasn’t growing, and I definitely wasn’t excited about what I was doing. I learn best by doing, by asking questions, and by being curious. College didn’t give me that.

As the summer holidays rolled around, I dreaded going back. I had great teachers, but I couldn’t see myself continuing the course or starting something new just to stay in education. I needed something different; something that would let me learn and earn at the same time. I was turning 18 and wanted to start building a future.

I learned about apprenticeships in year 10

That’s when I remembered apprenticeships. I’d heard about them back in year 10, so I started searching online. At first, I found loads of childcare roles, but then I stumbled across a Specsavers apprenticeship. I’d never thought about optics before; it wasn’t like dreaming of being a footballer or astronaut, but something about it intrigued me. I applied, even though I accidentally chose a call centre role. Thankfully, the store manager was able to transfer my application as I wanted a customer-facing role, invited me in for a trial day, and helped me find the right fit as an Apprentice Optical Assistant.

From day one, I was hooked. I got to speak with current and former apprentices, and I quickly realised this was more than just selling glasses. It was about solving problems, helping people, and making sure every customer left happy. That’s what I loved most - making a difference and standing out.

Nothing is without its challenges

It wasn’t always easy. Just after my probation, we hit the January rush. I was exhausted, on my feet all day, and honestly thought about quitting. But I spoke to my team, and they encouraged me to stick with it. I’m so glad I did. I adapted, matured, and found my rhythm. The team became like a second family, always there to support me.

There were other bumps too—like a delay in my apprenticeship enrolment and struggling with complex topics like prisms, but I pushed through. I ended up finishing in just over a year, earned a triple distinction, and I’ve even been nominated for the National Apprentice of the Year award!

Now I have real goals

Before Specsavers, I had no idea what I wanted to do. Now, I’ve got real goals. I want to move into management, maybe even become a partner one day. I don’t need to be rich—I just want a happy, fulfilling life. And thanks to this apprenticeship, I know that’s possible.

Apprenticeships aren’t a backup plan

If you’re like me - someone who learns by doing, who wants to grow, earn, and build a real career - don’t overlook apprenticeships. They’re not a backup plan. For me, it was the best decision I ever made”.