Now in its 12th year, National Apprenticeship Week is a celebration of the impact of apprenticeships on individuals, employers and the economy. This week, 4th – 8th March, Livewell Southwest is highlighting the fantastic opportunities available for those interested in an apprenticeship, as well as looking at the experiences of some our apprentices.
Louise Barker is a Health Visitor with the South Locality team, and is undertaking a Level 3 Leadership & Management apprenticeship.
Louise says, “I decided on an apprenticeship as a way to progress my career, and I’m learning a lot about myself, my leadership style, and that of my manager.
“I attend college once a week to complete the theory and assignments, and I spend the rest of the week working within the team and composing my portfolio of evidence.
“My current role is very difficult and demanding, particularly regarding child protection, however there are times where I can really make a difference to families’ lives. It’s flexible so I can fit in with my partner and my children, although it can be extremely busy and sometimes difficult to balance my caseload and my family life, but the outcome will be well worth it.
“An apprenticeship is a great opportunity to learn new skills and gain qualifications whilst being paid, so I would recommend them to anyone considering one.”
Becky Hoole is a Student Nurse Degree Apprentice. Becky says, “I have only succeeded because of apprenticeships, and because of this I knew that for me to develop into becoming a nurse an apprenticeship was the best route for me.
“Not only do they offer the reassurance of a monthly wage, I’ve also benefitted from the wider range of support and experience I’ve gained with all of my apprenticeships. I’ve been able to gain lots of experience in different areas of nursing and learn about the other avenues that apprenticeships can open for everyone.
“I truly believe that without undertaking my first apprenticeship in health and social care I would not have developed within my chosen career path with confidence and a wide knowledge base.
“Another great thing about an apprenticeship is the people who are also undertaking the journey with you. We all have different pathways and experiences when working, and I find this is a great way to reflect on both lectures and first-hand experience.
“Life as an apprentice is very busy! However, being able to learn and use the skills I am picking up in the classroom when I am working is a great feeling. No two days are the same and I am developing every day. Having constructive feedback and a plan of how I can continue to develop with the wide range of support gets me out of bed every morning, even if the previous day has been difficult.
“My advice to anyone who is thinking about an apprenticeship is to do it! Without this fantastic and one of a kind learning, I wouldn’t be in the job I am now.”
If you’d like more information on the different types of apprenticeships available, you can download a useful guide to apprenticeships from gov.uk here.
Livewell Southwest apprenticeship vacancies are advertised here.
