Life as an apprentice

What apprenticeship did you do?

I completed a level 2 customer service apprenticeship

Why did you apply for an apprenticeship at the Council?

I was looking to gain further education and work at the same time. After working many years in retail I decided I wanted a change of environment and was looking at building a career in a professional environment.

What element of the apprenticeship did you find most beneficial for your career development?

I found the one to one meetings with my lovely NVQ assessor so beneficial for my career development. There is always somebody to help or support. I also found that because I worked closely with other apprentices, I gained knowledge on all areas and became confident in my role.

Do you think the apprenticeship programme directly impacted on your career opportunities?

Whilst I was working as an apprentice and building up my knowledge, I was lucky enough to be successful in applying for a position at the Council, which I absolutely love. Through the apprenticeship I was able to learn interview techniques and all the skills I would need for my now current role. If I hadn’t done this apprenticeship I would still be working very unsociable hours with no career progression in mind.

What one piece of advice would you give to an apprentice on a programme now?

I would advise anyone on an apprenticeship programme now to look back every month and list down five new things you have learnt, because there will be many. Go for any opportunity so it doesn’t pass you by and have fun!