Why did I choose an apprenticeship?

Author
Fay Daniels
Marketing Manager - Contracts | Business West
5th March 2018

Abi Ryan is an apprentice in Business West’s Skills Team and joined the company in April 2017. Currently completing a Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship, we spoke to Abi about why she chose the apprenticeship route and why she would recommend it to others.

“When I finished my A Levels, I wasn’t sure what to do next but I knew I was apprehensive of another three years full time study at university. I had seen a friend complete her apprenticeship and watched as she then gained full time employment with her company. She recommended it as a route to consider and the more I looked into it, the more I thought it would be a good option for me.

I’ve been at Business West for 10 months now and am part of the Skills team, working on a busy government funded project. I am a Project Administrator and help with tasks such as inputting data, preparing packs for events and general admin duties. Since I’ve been here I’ve gained a variety of new skills, from learning new computer systems (such as the company’s CRM system) to the basics of how a business operates and how to work effectively in a team.

I think apprenticeships are a great option for someone who wants to gain valuable skills of the ‘real life working world’ and is perhaps not keen on full time study. When I finish I will have a recognised qualification as well as a whole range of first-hand experiences in the workplace, which I wouldn’t have had studying full time. The bonus is I’ve been earning money too!

There are hundreds of apprenticeships out there, so my advice is to take a look to find one that suits you.”

Nicky Williams, Head of Skills at Business West explained how having an apprentice in her team has brought some great benefits.

“Having Abi on the team is a big advantage for us.  Since she started last year, Abi has helped with some key pieces of work and has contributed massively to the smooth running of the project overall.

It's also fantastic having a young person working with the team as they bring fresh insight and valuable new skills. Abi gets to experience all aspects of working life, from working in a team to attending meetings and taking part in more social activities.

Apprenticeships can work for all size of businesses and our Business Skills Advisers can answer any questions you may have, so don’t hesitate to get in touch.” 

Read more interviews with inspirational business women from our International Women's Day series:

International Women's Day: Q&A With Diane Douglas

International Women's Day: Q&A With Roz Hutchings

International Women's Day: Q&A With Lauren Groves

Apprenticeship case study: one year on

#IWD2018 #PressforProgress #BusinessWestWomen

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