At 60, Linda Booth faced redundancy. It could have been the end of her career, but she had other plans. Instead of giving up, she became an apprentice. Now, at 64, she is thriving as a business administrator, proving that learning doesn’t stop at a certain age.

She found her apprenticeship at a job fair, almost skipping the opportunity, thinking employers only wanted younger candidates. But she learned something important: Attitude matters more than age. She took a leap, applied, and was accepted. That decision changed everything.

Becoming an Apprentice at 60 Is Doable

Being an apprentice was not what she expected at first. It felt strange to start fresh when many her age were winding down their careers. But instead of focusing on the past, she embraced the present. The training, the new skills, the challenge - it all made her feel alive.

BBC / Linda Booth says that not every workforce should be young people. Older folks need to be confident about it.

The biggest lesson? Confidence is everything. Many older people assume they won’t be hired. Linda thought the same at first. But when she was welcomed with open arms, she realized employers value experience just as much as youth.

Why More Older Workers Are Choosing Apprenticeships?

Linda is not alone. Age UK Hull and East Yorkshire report a growing trend: More people in their late fifties and early sixties are looking for work because they can’t afford to retire. Many turn to apprenticeships to retrain and stay employable.

Losing a job later in life is tough. Employers often favor younger candidates, and older workers feel overlooked. But Linda wants others to push past that fear. She believes older workers bring something special to the table: Reliability, wisdom, and a strong work ethic.

Older Workers Bring More Than Just Experience

Apprenticeships are not just about learning new skills. They are proving what you already know. Linda brings a lifetime of experience to her role, helping younger colleagues and keeping the team balanced.

She believes employers should think beyond the usual hiring patterns. Workforces thrive when they are diverse, not just in background but also in age. Hiring older workers doesn’t just help individuals; it strengthens businesses, too.

Older People Should Fight the Fear of Change

Trying something new is scary at any age, but for older workers, it can feel overwhelming. Linda understands that fear. She thought she would not be able to do the job. Now, nearly a year in, she is confident and thriving.

GTN / Ms. Booth wishes more people in their sixties would take a chance on themselves.

Learning new skills is not just for the young. She believes workplaces need a mix of ages to truly function well. Young employees bring energy, but older workers bring stability and knowledge.

Employers Need to Rethink Age Bias

The numbers don’t lie. The Centre for Ageing Better found that a third of people aged 50 to 70 feel at a disadvantage when applying for jobs. Employers don’t always see their value. But Linda’s story challenges that mindset.

Springfield Training Ltd saw her potential, not her birth year. Their CEO, Noel Johnson, says Linda is a perfect fit, bringing enthusiasm and kindness to the team. He believes skills can be taught at any age. What matters is the willingness to learn.

It Is Never Too Late to Start Again

Linda’s journey is not just about finding a job. It is about rediscovering confidence, breaking stereotypes, and proving that learning is lifelong. She wants others in their sixties to know they still have options.

Age doesn’t have to limit you. If you are willing to learn, willing to take a chance, and willing to believe in yourself, anything is possible. Linda Booth did it. And so can you.