Somerset Chamber is proud to support a diverse range of organisations in the Somerset business community who are as passionate about our region as we are.
In a new series of interviews, we will be shining a spotlight on some of our Business Partners, recognising their commitment to Somerset, its business community and beyond.
Somerset Voices is also a chance to find out more about the people behind the brands!
Our next Somerset Voices spotlight is Claire Turley, Head of Partnerships at Pro Apprenticeships:
Please introduce yourself and tell us about your role. What does a typical day look like for you?
I’m Claire Turley, Head of Partnerships at Pro Apprenticeships, an Ofsted Outstanding training provider passionate about creating meaningful outcomes for businesses and learners across Somerset.
My role focuses on building strong relationships with employers, learners and local partners to help place new apprentices and upskill existing teams.
A typical day can include meeting with business leaders to explore growth opportunities through apprenticeships, connecting with learners to celebrate their success, and collaborating with the Chamber and wider community to raise awareness about the power of apprenticeships to transform lives and strengthen our local economy.
Can you tell us about your business/organisation, what you do, where you’re based and how your work has a positive impact on those you work with?
Pro Apprenticeships has two offices, one in Taunton and one in Bristol. We proudly work across Somerset and the wider Southwest. We deliver advanced apprenticeships including marketing, data, it, software, business, management and more.
We help businesses grow, retain talent, and futureproof their workforce. Our team works closely with both employers and apprentices to ensure every learner receives personalised support and Ofsted Outstanding training that creates genuine impact.
We’re proud to have helped hundreds of Somerset businesses upskill their teams, nurture new talent, and open doors for people from all backgrounds to gain the confidence and skills they need to thrive.
What do you enjoy most about doing business in Somerset?
Somerset has such a strong sense of community. Businesses genuinely want to see each other succeed, and that spirit runs through every partnership we build. There’s a real willingness to collaborate, share ideas, and invest in people.
Working with Somerset employers means seeing first-hand how much pride they take in nurturing local talent, whether that’s a small family business taking on its first apprentice or a growing company looking to develop future leaders.
It’s an inspiring place to do business, and we feel privileged to contribute to that shared sense of progress.
Outside of work, what’s your ‘Somerset favourite’, as in a place to visit or activity you like to do in our county?
Who doesn’t love a walk through the Mendip Hills or exploring the independent shops and cafes in Wells on a weekend. But for me, my personal favourite has to be Dunster Castle, it’s absolutely stunning there. Especially around the festive season when the afternoons are getting darker, the lights are up and you can grab a hot drink and while you walk around the grounds with the family.
How long have you been members of Somerset Chamber of Commerce and what prompted you to join?
We’ve been members for a year now. Joining the Chamber was an easy decision, we wanted to connect with like-minded businesses who share our values around growth, education, and opportunity. It’s been a fantastic way to strengthen relationships and stay actively involved in the Somerset business community.
What has been the most valuable aspect for you/your organisation, of being part of Somerset Chamber?
The Chamber has been instrumental in helping us connect with businesses that truly care about people development. Through events and networking we’ve been able to form partnerships that directly lead to new apprenticeships.
The support from the Chamber team is always genuine, they really do champion your business. For us it’s not just about new business though, It’s about belonging to a community that works together to make the region stronger as a whole.
What advice would you give to a business thinking of joining Somerset Chamber?
Join with an open mind and a willingness to connect. The more you put in, the more you’ll gain. The Chamber isn’t just a network; it’s a community that helps good businesses do even greater things across Somerset.
Join Somerset Chamber of Commerce to give your business a stronger voice both locally, regionally and nationally. Combined with local town chambers, we represent over 2,000 businesses across Somerset with a direct line to policy-makers at all levels.
