Amie’s apprenticeship and beyond
Where it all started
It started when my firstborn child, Alfie turned two and I wanted to get back into work. Initially, I
didn’t really know where to begin. My sister mentioned a local company who were advertising apprenticeships, but at the age of 24, I brushed her off as
I thought I was too old – turns out I wasn’t!
Getting a foot in the door
I thought I was going to an interview but it was actually a recruitment event with me and eleven other candidates going for one of three positions, either within human resources, customer services, and the property department. We did all sorts of team-building exercises, and interviews with people who worked there – all whilst being observed. We were then told that day if we were successful, I was over the moon to be accepted for an apprenticeship within the customer services team.
The apprenticeship
I began my apprenticeship role in the summer of 2013 and honestly enjoyed everything about it. There was a great blend between doing the actual job and also taking time out to complete my NVQ Level 2 in Customer Services qualification. All the apprentices in the business would meet up and have a monthly ‘huddle’, which was a great way to provide support and learn from each other. We also got to work together as a team to organise events that supported the wider organisation.
Opportunity knocks
Eight weeks after my apprenticeship had started, a job opportunity arose within the organisation that would enable me to step up from being an apprentice and become a full time Customer Services Advisor. I jumped at the opportunity, was successful in my interview and didn’t look back!
Despite gaining full time employment I went on to complete my NVQ Level 2 in my own time as I wanted to achieve my apprenticeship qualification. I then went on to pursue my NVQ level 3.
Beyond…
After completing my NVQ qualifications whilst in my full time job role, I pushed myself to train and mentor new colleagues and apprentices in order to further develop my leadership skills.
Recommendation
I will always be grateful for the opportunity I was given eight years ago as I am still with the organisation now, which I think proves an apprenticeship was definitely the right option for me. I am also married to a co-worker and we have a beautiful baby girl! My apprenticeship brought me career opportunities and also the love of my life – I can’t ask for much more than that!
