Having worked with many apprentices and having had the pleasure of watching many individuals grow through the experience of apprenticeship opportunities, I am most definitely an advocate for apprenticeships and in full support of National Apprenticeship Week.
The great thing about offering apprenticeships is that apprentices of all ages are able to work and learn new skills, often a particular trade or area of business and gain qualifications at the same time. I have personally mentored apprentices, one in particular who stands out. She joined our company as a school leaver, knowing that she didn’t want to pursue the college or university route. She chose a Business Administration apprenticeship and was initially quite shy and wary. Not long into her apprenticeship, she gained confidence through her invaluable experiences in the work place and excelled in the academic portion of her apprenticeship.
Apprenticeship schemes are successful when apprentices are encouraged to ‘get stuck in’ and learn on the job, aided by some dedicated mentors that really want them to succeed. That was the case with this individual who went on to become a permanent employee of the organisation and has continued to grow from strength to strength as she develops her career. The experience she gained as an apprentice with us, was essential to her future career prospects.
In my opinion, every person who is considering the start of their career, needs an opportunity to develop their skills alongside any academic learning. This is why I think Honest Voice will change the way in which careers advice and skills support is offered to young people. Through online tools, resources and practical workshops, Honest Voice will provide individuals with an opportunity to explore a world of REAL careers advice that has not been available before. So this National Apprenticeship Week, whether you are considering setting up an apprenticeship scheme or you are seeking some advice to figure out the best path for you, register your interest today at www.honestvoice.co.uk
Katherine Noble
@HonestVoiceUK