Martin & Co employee wins TV's Young Apprentice show

Belated congratulations to the letting agency employee who has been crowned winner of BBC’s Young Apprentice (even writing the words makes us feel nervous).

So well done to brave 17-year-old Ashleigh Porter-Exley, of Martin & Co at Rotherham, who went head to head in the terrifying contest with 11 other contestants over eight weeks, fighting to impress Lord Alan Sugar.

Ashleigh has been working as an apprentice with Martin & Co since last May and managed to achieve her title while studying for her NVQ Level 2 in Business and Admin as well as taking an evening accountancy course.

She said: “I’m ecstatic to be the winner of Young Apprentice – it still feels surreal. My plan is to knuckle down and get my qualifications. I am also keen to carry on gaining work experience and keep expanding my knowledge, confidence and expertise.”

In the final episode, Ashleigh took joint role of project manager in a task to create a new brand of sportswear with global potential. She along with fellow candidate Lucy won the task convincingly.

Ashleigh said: “Being involved in Young Apprentice was a life-changing opportunity for me. I had many highlights throughout the eight weeks from the friends I made to the places I got to see.  

“It was also a huge privilege to work with people such as Lord Sugar, Karen Brady, Nick Hewer, Labrinth, Rio Ferdinand and Mark Hill.”

Although Ashleigh is still considering how she will invest her prize fund, she has gone back to her day job.  

She said: “Working for Martin & Co has been very beneficial for me. The sector is fast-paced which suits me and my demand for a challenge.”