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As Britain celebrates National Apprenticeship Week, we speak to a London Underground (LU) Apprentice.

Assistant Delivery Engineer Ade Serrano tells us why he chose to take this career path.

Why did you become an LU apprentice?
I had done various roles, but none were leading to a career and I was never part of a company where I could see myself working for the rest of my life, or at least a decent number of years. I'd heard good things about TfL so when my girlfriend suggested I apply for an apprenticeship, I didn't hesitate.

Did you worry about become an apprentice at 24?
When I applied, I had a job already, and joining the scheme meant taking a pay cut for a few years so I was slightly apprehensive because I was the breadwinner in my household with a young daughter and rent to pay. Once past this initial worry, I've never regretted my decision to apply for a TfL apprenticeship.

How did you find the application process?
When I attended an interview for the LU Track Renewals Engineering apprenticeship scheme, I was worried because I knew next to nothing about track renewals. I soon realised that you're not expected to know everything there is to know about the relevant discipline. All you need is a passion to learn and the drive to succeed.

How did you balance 'hands-on' work and study?
The first couple of months were spent being introduced to people across the company and taking different training courses. The rest of my time was split between being at college and completing work placements in various areas of the Underground. I worked in the middle of the night, deep down in the Central line tunnels for one placement and for another I worked during the day planning track renewals.

What was the most memorable part of your training?
One of my biggest achievements was being part of the planning of a major closure. This involved closing the Uxbridge branch of the Metropolitan line for five weeks and renewing more than 5km of track. I spent almost every day on site throughout the works.

What are you doing now?
I've completed my apprenticeship and am now an Assistant Delivery Engineer at TfL. This means I deliver track renewals safely, cost effectively and on time. I am also a mentor for three new apprentices.

Any tips for aspiring apprentices?
I can honestly say that applying for a TfL apprenticeship was the best decision of my life. If you are in search of a career rather than a job, then I suggest you take a few minutes to look at the apprenticeship schemes offered, whether you have just left school or college or if you have a degree or years of work experience. My top tip would be to check if you meet the relevant minimum requirements (they vary according to scheme), find the one you feel you will have the most interest in, and apply. Don't worry about a lack of knowledge in the discipline involved and good luck!

• Find out more about becoming a TfL apprentice at tfl.gov.uk/apprenticeships