I was working as an Admin Clerical Officer in a small office and I had one on one sessions with my Manager.  I asked if I could have some further training to further develop my career and I applied for an NVQ level 3 which I was accepted for. However, I didn’t have Math or English qualifications so to be able to achieve the NVQ qualification I had to achieve Math and English Level 2 first.

I decided to do the Apprenticeship as I wanted to gain a new knowledge and further my skills. Mainly I wanted to have a recognised qualification which hopefully would improve my employability. The main benefit of the programme was to become knowledgeable and highly specialised in the processes. I was supported mainly by my Coach Kerren and Denise and I must mention Adam – a Math/English Tutor.

I had weekly sessions with Adam to practice and learn Maths and he was so patient and professional through the whole process because Maths is/was my worst nightmare, but he always believed in me that I can pass both exams. Kerren supported and explained some topics in more details for example the topic was ‘record documentation’, Kerren told me the best way to explain is to ‘’show me and tell me’’ which this simple phrase has stayed with me throughout and I could record my evidence easier.

I think Apprenticeships will put anyone in a strong position for job opportunities. My workplace has helped me to continue with the programme despite me moving to a different role within different departments. I was allowed to have extra time off to finish and finalise my preparation work for the End point of assessments. Overall, I had a very supportive Manager who addressed my skill gaps for example in creating Power point presentation and she supported me to develop my project for the End point of assessment.

My Manager helped me to focus on developing soft skills like problem solving and excellent communication skills which I can pride myself with. Since completing the programme, I wanted to have a break from studies, however my plan is to become PA/Secretary within the Healthy Family Team and I am already taking steps and observing secretaries in different departments and building my confidence in minute taking. I am open to the new paths and continue to work alongside colleagues within the Healthy Family Team.