This week, February 7 -13th 2022, is National Apprenticeship Week and to mark the occasion we caught up with two of our apprentices.
Rachael Harris has recently completed her Professional Accounting Technician - Level 4 apprenticeship.
Why did you decide to do an apprenticeship?
The beauty of doing an apprenticeship is you’re not only learning new theory in your field, but you’re also putting it into practice straight away. It feels like your studying is fast-tracked, as you’re given the opportunity to gain real business experience at the same time.
How has the apprenticeship been of benefit to you?
The apprenticeship, as well as the Accountancy qualification, covers crucial business skills & behaviours. My eyes were really opened here and the knowledge I’ve gained in skills such as teamwork, communication, leadership, and problem-solving have been, and will continue to be, beneficial.
What did the apprenticeship involve?
I had 1 day a week dedicated to study. I attended a virtual study session with a tutor and other classmates. Then I had recorded lectures to watch and learn from. All materials and exam practice questions are provided. As well as a study tutor, you have an apprenticeship coach to guide you every step.
What are you enjoying most about your apprenticeship?
It's the moments when you’re able to enjoy a topic a lot more now that you understand the theory and foundations behind it. For instance, one of the modules I studied was on Financial Statements, and as a result it’s developed my interests in our business strategy and goals.
Where do you want your apprenticeship to take you? Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
My apprenticeship qualification now gives me a leg up for further professional accounting qualifications such as CIMA or ACCA. It won’t be long until I’m on to the next challenge!
Elliot Lowery has just started his Electrical apprenticeship at the venue.
Why did you decide to do an apprenticeship?
I decided to do an apprenticeship because I know it will help me develop the necessary skills and experience to gain my electrical qualification and, therefore, kickstart a career for myself.
How has the apprenticeship been of benefit to you?
This apprenticeship has benefited me by giving me a chance to develop my hands on skills, and teamwork skills as well as improving my general knowledge of how things work around a building.
What does your day-to-day role involve?
My day-to-day roles mainly involve maintaining the electrical work around the building.
What are you enjoying most about your apprenticeship?
What I am enjoying most about my apprenticeship is that it provides me with an experience I’ve always been keen on, which is learning new things and getting the opportunity to learn them from a qualified team that are always very helpful.
Where do you want your apprenticeship to take you? Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
In five years, I hope to find myself a qualified electrician working at Manchester Central full time utilising the wealth of knowledge and skills I developed during my apprenticeship.