Amie’s apprenticeship and beyond
Where it all started
It started when my firstborn child, Alfie turned two and I wanted to return to work. Initially, I didn’t 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’. Eleven other candidates and I were going for one of three positions, with either human resources, customer services, or the property department. We did all sorts of team-building exercises and had interviews – all whilst being observed. We were informed at the end of the event 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 to complete my NVQ Level 2 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 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 achieving my NVQ qualifications whilst in my full-time role, I pushed myself to train and mentor new colleagues and apprentices, further developing my leadership skills. I have now secured a job as a complaints advisor within the customer insight team. Experience from my apprenticeship and role in the customer services team has given me a huge knowledge base in this area of the business.
Recommendation
I will always be grateful for the opportunity I was given eight years ago as I am still with the organisation today – this proves an apprenticeship was the right option for me. I’m also married to a co-worker and we have a beautiful family together. My apprenticeship brought me brilliant career opportunities and also the love of my life – I can’t ask for much more than that!
