“Prior to my Apprenticeship I was working in a coffee shop, and I knew that it was not what I wanted to do long term,” Carley explains, “I had worked in hospitality and retail since I was in my early teens, but I was finding it very hard to branch away from this as I didn’t have relevant experience.”

At the age of 21, Carley started looking for Apprenticeships based in her home-town of Newport, applying for a one-year Business Administration Level 2 qualification and becoming one of the City Council’s first ever apprentices in the process.

“Being one of the original apprentices was a very exciting time, it was a new experience for the apprentices, the teams that we were placed in, and Newport City Council as a whole,” Carley says. “The amount of effort and time that went into training us and ensuring that we had everything we needed to continue on our career paths was incredible.”

“It has also been a strange journey for me, however, as in the time since my Apprenticeship I have been diagnosed with a degenerative condition that affects my sight. Due to this I have since been registered blind, so I am very lucky that I have received continuous support from colleagues, managers and HR to work around this and find ways to work that suit me too.”

Placed within the Education department, Carley’s Apprenticeship involved supporting the Early Years Integration team by managing calendars, booking and attending meetings, completing digital filing and as a point of contact for partners and nursery settings. She also got to visit early years settings and attend panel meetings, giving her a first-hand understanding of the team’s aims and objectives too.

That was five years ago, and Carley has been employed by Newport City Council ever since, working as a Customer Services Officer, School Support Officer, Administrator with the Child Protection Unit, and currently as a Business Support Officer with the Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (VAWDASV) team.

The Apprenticeship has opened so many doors for me and it has set me up on a career path that I thoroughly enjoy.

“My goals for the future now are to continue my career journey within Newport City Council, wherever that may take me, and to continue to adapt to working life with my condition.” Carley said.

“I would absolutely recommend an Apprenticeship and my advice to young people who are considering this route is that it is truly invaluable. For me, it was a perfect balance of work-based experience and learning an Apprenticeship.”

If you want to find out more about apprenticeship opportunities currently available��.

As Project Coordinator for Cwmpas, an economic development agency Thomas was keen to expand his social media knowledge further and signed up for a������

“I was looking to undertake something new and social media was an area of my role where I felt I could learn more. For me, the qualification offered a free learning opportunity which I’d be accredited for at the end of it.”��

The Level 3 Social Media for Business Apprenticeship supports learners in developing various digital media skills that can be transferable across many sectors. Equipping learners with the skills knowledge and competency to support business systems, processes and services, the qualification enables learners to use social media in a more efficient and productive way.��

Speaking about the qualification, Thomas commented, “I’ve really enjoyed the qualification and liked that I got to pick and choose the units that best suited my work needs. There are mandatory units to cover your core knowledge but then there’s a huge choice around the units you can tailor fit around you. It enables you to both grow your knowledge and your confidence at the same time.����

“For me learning about Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) and increasing brand visibility was essential learning for engagement. The outcome is that I’ve adapted my approach and engagement with my network has really improved without necessarily advertising.”��

Thomas is a firm advocator of upskilling on the job and believes apprenticeships are a smart and savvy choice for anyone looking to boost their career progression – especially in the current economic climate.����

I’ve always had a big drive and ambition to improve my education. I knew I was worthy of a meaningful career and greater opportunities and recognised I needed to demonstrate that to make it happen. I took the advantage of free training in Wales!��

“I’ve seen a shift from wanting specific A ‘Levels and degrees when hiring, to businesses like Cwmpas that want people to have a good standard of education which is representative of the role you’re going for. This is where apprenticeships come in massively! I’ve not got a degree in Management but I do have a range of qualifications in Leadership & Management, Business Administration and now social media. It makes up a nice package of skills!����

Social Media particularly, is vital in today’s market place as it allows businesses to both attract and engage customers, while increasing market reach. Through his Social Media for Business qualification, Thomas can devise and implement marketing campaigns ideas to drive business and raise the visibility of his current work project.��

“The biggest thing the qualification has given me is the confidence that I’m doing something right. You’re more likely to perform your job better if you feel confident. This qualification gives you tools so you have the knowledge, confidence, experience and know how to figure out how best to adapt your approach.”��

Navigating an apprenticeship alongside work commitments may seem overwhelming but Thomas stresses that with commitment and support, an apprenticeship is a viable option for anyone in the workplace.����

I would absolutely recommend apprenticeships to anyone. They’re not something you do when you’re young and you think you’re not academic. This perception is wrong! Apprenticeships are a viable way of upskilling yourself, showing your responsible and committed to learning while gaining confidence and being an asset to your workplace.�� Also, they’re free!����

“The support from �鶹ֱ�� has been fantastic too. The assessors have always been on hand and provided a great deal of reassurance, guidance and been really encouraging and flexible. My value in the workplace has increased since undertaking my apprenticeships and I’m now in a position to share my knowledge with others in the business.”��

Despite only recently completing his Social Media for Business qualification, Thomas has already set his sights on further qualifications which will enable him to reach his goal of becoming a Business Advisor.����

“I’ve applied to do Community Shares Practitioner Training which will demonstrate my skills as a Business Advisor. For me, it’s about future proofing myself and gaining all the skills I can.”��

If you’d like to learn more about Social Media for Business and how it can future proof your career��

We spoke to three staff members about this unique journey.��

Engagement Tutor, Callum Taylor, finished sixth form and decided he didn’t want to go to university. He wanted a job instead.��

“After a few weeks of applying for jobs, I wasn’t really getting anywhere so I went to Careers Wales and they referred me to �鶹ֱ��.” Callum explained. “I did a level 1 Customer Service course and after a few months, I was put on placement in Hadfield Road as a teaching assistant. I must’ve done alright, because a few months later I was offered a job.”��

Despite this, teaching wasn’t the first path that came to Callum at �鶹ֱ��. “�鶹ֱ�� initially sourced me an admin placement, which I did for a few months,” he recalled. “But it didn’t feel like the right fit for me.” Unsure of his next steps, he returned to the centre to explore other options. That’s when his tutor suggested a placement as a teaching assistant. “I decided to give it a try, and I really enjoyed it. It helped me realise that I was better suited for a role in teaching or training than in admin.”��

This experience set him on a new route. His time as a learner at �鶹ֱ�� taught him much more than technical skills – it gave him the knowledge he needed professionally. “I learned how to apply for jobs, present myself in interviews, and become more employable,” he explained. Beyond the practical lessons, he also gained personal insight through wellbeing sessions. “Those sessions helped me think more critically about a lot of issues and prepared me for the challenges of my work placement.”��

His placement as a teaching assistant at Hadfield Road lasted about three months, and it became a turning point in his career. “As the placement was coming to an end, the centre manager took me aside and asked if I’d be interested in turning it into a job.”����

Callum accepted the offer, initially working as a general classroom assistant. About a year later, he transitioned into his current role as an engagement tutor.��

Now, as a learning coach, his role focuses on supporting learners’ wellbeing, but it spans multiple areas. “I deliver wellbeing sessions, have one-on-one chats with learners who might be struggling, and even handle a fair amount of admin,” he said. “It’s a bit of everything, but the most rewarding part is working directly with the learners and seeing their development during their time on programme.”��

However, the transition from learner to staff wasn’t without its challenges. “At first, it was difficult because some of the learners I worked with were people I’d been friendly with as a fellow learner,” he admitted. “But over time, as I gained experience and those learners moved on, it became easier. I’ll never forget my first Christmas party, seeing the staff I worked with as a learner really let their hair down — it was such a different side to them!”����

Looking back, he believes his experiences as a learner have profoundly shaped his approach to his role. “I have so much empathy for our learners because I understand what they’re going through,” he said. “For many of them, we’re not their main priority— they’ve got other challenges in their lives. It’s important not to take it personally when they don’t prioritise their learning.”��

His journey from learner to staff member has also given him a unique perspective on �鶹ֱ�� as a whole.

“I’ve seen how �鶹ֱ�� works from both sides, and that’s given me a deeper understanding of the learner journey. It’s incredibly rewarding to now be part of that journey for others, helping them navigate their challenges and grow, just as I did.”��

At 17, life after school felt uncertain for Learner Outreach Worker Nazma Hassan. Disengaged and unsure of what career path to pursue, she found herself at a crossroads. “I wasn’t sure what to do,” she said. “But then I met with Careers Wales, and they introduced me to apprenticeship pathways with �鶹ֱ��. It really clicked with me because I’m a practical learner who thrives on-the-job.”��

What made �鶹ֱ�� stand out wasn’t just its practical approach, but also the sense of independence it fostered. “I loved that �鶹ֱ�� didn’t feel like school. That freedom motivated me to stay engaged with my course.”����

Nazma chose to pursue a Business Administration course, seeing potential for growth in the field. A placement in �鶹ֱ��’s Health & Safety department marked the beginning of her journey. “That’s where it all started,” she said. “I completed my Level 1 Business Admin and had the opportunity to progress to an apprenticeship, where I earned my Level 2 and 3 Business Admin qualifications. I then transitioned to the Data Administration team.”��

Her career goals evolved along the way. “When I first joined �鶹ֱ��, I thought I wanted to be a teacher. But after some work placement experience, I realised it wasn’t for me. I was lucky to figure this out early and pivot toward something that felt like a better fit.”��

Through her time learning with �鶹ֱ��, Nazma gained not just technical skills but also personal resilience. “One of the biggest lessons I learned was how to face challenges head-on and boost my confidence. If something didn’t work out, I found alternatives or sought support from my tutors. I became more independent and ambitious, even when some friends started to disengage from the course. I didn’t let that affect my own progression.”��

Her commitment paid off. After completing her Level 1 Business Admin, her line manager saw her potential and recommended her for an apprenticeship role within �鶹ֱ��. “I went through the interview process with HR and was thrilled to be offered the position,” she said.��

For the next 14 years, she thrived as a Data Administrator. Her role encompassed everything from processing learner payments and managing data entry to auditing and reception duties. But her journey didn’t stop there. “Over a year ago, new roles were developed within the JGW+ Programme, and I applied for an Outreach Recruitment Worker position. I got the job, and it’s been incredible. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow even further.”��

When a friend suggested to Hadfield Receptionist Jess Stiff that she should join her on a hair and barbering course at �鶹ֱ��, the thought of enrolling had never crossed her mind. But after touring the centre, she was intrigued.����

“I hadn’t even heard of �鶹ֱ�� before my friend brought it up,” Jess explained, “but once I saw what they offered, I decided to pursue a Level 1 in Animal Care instead, which eventually led to completing my Level 1 Land-Based Studies.”��

Her decision wasn’t random. A deep fascination with wildlife and a strong interest in big cats had shaped her original career goal – to become a zoologist. “I’ve always been fascinated by wildlife,” Jess said. “The idea of working with big cats and studying their behaviours really inspired me.”��

Her time as a learner at �鶹ֱ�� became a period of intense growth, both personally and professionally. The course taught her a wide range of practical and transferable skills, which would prove invaluable in her career. “I developed time management, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills,” she said. “I also improved my communication and research abilities. On the practical side, I learned basic animal care skills like feeding, watering, health checks, and proper handling techniques. I even got hands-on experience with enclosure maintenance, including choosing the right substrates and enrichment items.”��

The transition from learner to staff member was an unexpected but welcome twist in her journey. “I was still on programme when I was offered a job,” she recalled. “My tutor at the time really helped me prepare for it. Initially, I started as a placement learner, but soon they decided to take me on full-time. Now, I work here.”��

Today, her role at �鶹ֱ�� involves an array of responsibilities. “I handle greeting and welcoming visitors, managing incoming calls and inquiries, as well as overseeing mail and deliveries.������

“There’s also a security aspect to my role, ensuring visitor protocols are followed, and I assist with learners’ certificates. Additionally, I lead tours of the building, giving potential learners insights into our courses and what they entail.”��

Moving from being a learner to becoming part of the staff wasn’t without its challenges. “At first, it was overwhelming,” she admitted. “There was so much to learn and remember. But gradually, I got the hang of things and started to really enjoy it. The environment here is so welcoming and friendly. When I was later transferred to another centre, I felt nervous all over again, but within a week, I settled in and felt comfortable.”��

Her time at �鶹ֱ�� is filled with memories that highlight her growth and adaptability. “One of my favourite moments was being on stage and answering questions from Scott Quinnell about my course and career goals,” she shared. “Another standout experience was working in the café, which gave me valuable skills in a completely different setting.”��

Looking back, she credits her experience as a learner at �鶹ֱ�� for shaping the way she approaches her work today. “It taught me how to work both independently and as part of a team.��

“I’ve become more punctual, confident, and financially responsible. My communication skills have also improved significantly.”��

Nathan Emary has been studying IT, alongside Essential Skills, and was drawn to the JGW+ pathway after finishing school as it offered him work experience and a chance to earn money. This was particularly of interest to Nathan who was building a PC at the time and wanted to gain some additional IT skills as well as funds to be able to finance the project.

“The atmosphere [within JGW+] is like no other,” he said. “I get along with all the learners there and the class is very welcoming. My tutor Matt is the best, I’ve never clicked with anyone in the role like him and the way he lets everyone learn at their own pace is very refreshing – it definitely allows me to fully take in anything he is teaching.

“He will also be happy to go over anything with me personally and is always available for a general chat even with teaching multiple students at once.”

Nathan will now be heading to Legal and General and undertaking a foundation apprentice in Customer Services and Providing Financial Services with He will be responsible for checking and processing documents.

“My time at �鶹ֱ�� has definitely helped me with the hybrid work environment I will have at Legal and General as we are virtual 2-3 days a week.

“[In terms of skills gained at �鶹ֱ��] communication and collaboration are key and these have helped me significantly.”

Despite just landing the role, Nathan is keen to not rest on his laurels and has big aspirations for his future career.

“In the long term I would like to be in charge of my own company. I want to move up in Legal and General, gaining the most experience and qualifications, and hopefully moving to a managing position. I eventually want to start my own business involving smart technology.”

Matthew Hillier, Nathan’s IT tutor at �鶹ֱ��, said: “Nathan has been an absolute pleasure to have in IT on JGW+. Supporting Nathan to grow and develop through the course has been a privilege and I am inspired by of all of the progress he has made and the challenges he has overcome.

“Nathan has now secured an amazing opportunity with Legal & General, which I am confident he will excel in and prove to be a strong asset to the company. I am enormously proud of Nathan and wish him all of the very best with his future.”

If you are 16 to 19 years old and would like to learn more about Jobs Growth Wales + you can find further details and courses here.

Apprenticeships are a great way to upskill existing members of staff at all levels of seniority within a business. Subjects range from social media and finance to customer service and management, meaning that no matter what industry you’re in you will find a topic to interest and benefit you.��

A perfect example of the diversity of work-based learning is David Chaffey’s apprenticeship journey. David is a Switchboard Operator at Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, he is the first point of contact for the telecommunication service at the board.��

His role involves providing a fast, friendly and efficient service to fellow employees, members of the general public and other partner organisations.��

A keen learner, David undertook the Level 3 IT Users qualification to boost his proficiency in the tools he used each day, although it wasn’t without its challenges.��

David is visually impaired and uses a JAWS screen reader to help complete tasks.����

“I wanted to have a better understanding of Office 365 and how I could use it to maximise whatever work I am doing, alongside my screen reader,” David explained.��

And it wasn’t long before he was able to transfer the skills developed within the qualification to everyday role.��

He said:

“The course gave me the confidence, skills and knowledge to be able to use Office 365 in a whole new way.����

“Prior to it I used Outlook and Word, but that was about it. Since undertaking the course, I am happy to use the entirety of the Office suite which has not only benefitted me in my current role but has enabled me to maximise it in my secondment role as a Disability Inclusion Officer.”��

One of the advantages to an apprenticeship is that the course is flexible and can be completed parallel to your role, complimenting your work.��

“This style of learning suited me as I could work, but still learn and develop my skills and knowledge, applying it to my work environment and gaining real life experience,” David said.��

If learners have additional needs that must be considered while they are working towards their qualification, �鶹ֱ�� can make changes or adaptions. In David’s case, he had a reader and writer to help him with the completion of coursework.����

“I have received excellent support throughout the course,” David said. “I will admit I nearly didn’t finish it but luckily with the support that I received from the tutors and the reader and writer, I have now achieved this goal and I must admit it is the best feeling.”��

Learners looking to undertake a work-based apprenticeship may need to complete Essential Skills – a set of qualifications to ensure the learner has a solid foundation in maths, communication and digital literacy. Not only did David complete his IT course, he also achieved his Essential Skills boosting his confidence and employability skills.��

David’s tutor at �鶹ֱ��, Caitlin Edmonds, said: “David has excelled in his courses, particularly in the speaking and listening tasks. Something that stuck with me was his confidence in his presentation explaining how he has been helping to revamp and train others in the health board to ensure that each visually impaired person has the little things in place for them when arriving at the hospital.����

“David had a calm and confident approach to learning and never let his disability get in his way. Every time he completed a qualification, he reflected on how well he had done, how much he had learnt and overcome to achieve his goal.”��

The course aims to bridge communication gaps and support employers and employees in generating a more diverse and accessible working environment. With over 500,000 people in Wales reported to have hearing loss, the significance of such training cannot be overstated.��

Participants will be taught through a combination of face-to-face teaching, self-study and online resources, giving them a blended learning approach that is flexible and fits around their working day. Evening sessions are available to accommodate individual and business schedules. This training is available at Level 1, 2 and 3 through PTFE funding, subject to eligibility, for those who wish to learn a new language with its own distinct grammar and dialect.��

BSL is not limited in its applications. It is a tool for communicating with the deaf community but can also be implemented as a Health and Safety measure and a method of communicating when English is not the shared language.����

The advantages of acquiring BSL proficiency also extend beyond personal development; impacting workforce skills, customer service delivery, and internal Diversity, Equality and Inclusion training.����

Newly appointed, Director of Delivery at ALS, Fiona Argent said “We believe this course is significant to our growth as an organisation and for the communities we serve. Our courses are fully funded and flexible to suit the needs of individual learners and organisations”��

��ALS board Director, Sarah John, said “The new fully funded opportunity to learn BSL is a reflection of the way ALS engages with organisations and awarding bodies like Signature, to meet the demands of employers and learners on a local basis and is key to maintaining ALS’s position as a leading training provider,”��

BSL training will not only leave you with an understanding of the structure and practical uses of sign language it will also provide insight into the rich cultural heritage of this visual language.��

Take the first step today and sign up to find out more about our BSL qualifications.��

*All ALS funding is subject to eligibility����

Upskilling is a hot topic for any business leader at the moment. Anyone in a hiring position will know the current struggle of finding the right talent in an increasingly competitive market.

And if you’re feeling that the talent pool is shrinking, you’re not alone. An alarming report recently published by the CIPD shows skills shortages have more than doubled in Wales from 9,000 in 2017 to 20,600 in 2022. At the same time, more than a third of job vacancies were deemed ‘hard to fill’ owing to the quality of applicants and a lack of necessary skills.

It comes as no surprise then that businesses are looking to their existing workforce instead, upskilling their teams to help bridge this widening skills gap.

Development and upskilling consistently places in the most sought-after workplace ‘benefits’ for potential employees, with LinkedIn’s Global Talent Trends data finding that companies that help their employees build skills have a higher internal mobility rate than those who did not prioritise development. With that in mind, it’s no wonder that two thirds of employers are investing in training to upskill their current workforce.

Upskilling is beneficial for both business and individual, as well as the wider workforce. It provides the opportunity to learn new, highly desirable and transferable skills that then mean that companies obtain and retain staff with up-to-date knowledge relating to their role.

Upskilling also offers the chance to fully customise a role to your business needs, showing that you believe an employee is worth investing in and are supporting them in their future aspirations and career progression. Upskilling may seem like a daunting investment, but it shouldn’t be. At �鶹ֱ��, as Wales’ leading training provider, we have worked with more than 14,000 businesses across the country supporting them and their staff with their work-based learning needs, including apprenticeships.

Courses range from digital marketing and customer service to accountancy and facilities management, and many more. They are suitable for employees beginning their journey in a specific role as well as senior staff looking to boost their skillset.

Qualifications are fully funded by the Welsh Government and offer flexible learning in at the workplace, in workshops and online.

While it is a common misconception that apprenticeships are for specific – often manual – jobs, and for those just starting out in their career, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Apprenticeships are undertaken at any age, in any sector and by employees with all different levels of experience.

Apprenticeships can be delivered flexibly to the needs of the sector, business and learner – whether upskilling someone already in a role or offering an apprenticeship as an entry point into your organisation.

Coursework can be completed around a project that the learner is looking to implement within their company, showcasing what must be done and the action plan needed to do it.

Upskilling is rapidly become not just a ‘nice to offer’ perk of the job but an essential factor not just for job seekers but for businesses who are investing in their own growth as well as their employees’. You can find out more about how work-based learning can work for you by dropping us a line here.

�鶹ֱ�� was awarded a place in the top five education and training organisations nationally, and for the eighth consecutive year placed in the top 100 large companies to work for in the UK at the 2023 Best Companies award ceremony.

Best Companies recognises small, mid-size, large and big businesses across different regions and sectors throughout the UK, rating them on important factors such as wellbeing, leadership and fair pay.

Head of People and Development at �鶹ֱ��, Rebecca Cooper, said: “We are over the moon to have secured a place in the top 100 large companies to work for in the UK for the eighth consecutive year and to be named one of the top five Education and Training companies.

“�鶹ֱ�� prioritises staff happiness and engagement, which is one of our strategic aims, and this achievement helps us to measure that. We are even prouder that we have achieved this even though the last few years have been very challenging for the UK as a result of the pandemic and cost of living pressures.

“For us, happy staff results in excellent customer service to our learners who remain at the heart of everything we do.”

�鶹ֱ��’s Managing Director Richard Spear added: “We are delighted to be in the top-100 best companies to work for yet again. Staff happiness has been a strategic aim at �鶹ֱ�� for many years. We feel it is the right thing to focus on and are convinced that the happier and more engaged our team are, the better job they will do for the learners, employers or colleagues that they support.

“We are currently implementing engagement plans based on the data from last year’s survey and are working hard to make sure �鶹ֱ�� is an even greater place to work.”

�鶹ֱ�� has been an accredited ‘Outstanding Company to Work For’ with Best Companies for nearly a decade and is dedicated to ensuring it remains a company of choice for people looking for a career in education.

�鶹ֱ�� was awarded a place in the top five education and training organisations nationally, and for the 8th consecutive year placed in the top 100 large companies to work for in the UK at the 2023 Best Companies award ceremony.

�鶹ֱ�� is Wales’ largest training provider. Since its formation in 1988, it has helped more than 75,000 learners achieve their career goals, working with over 14,000 employers across Wales. From young people entering the world of work for the first time to senior managers and executives and everything in between, �鶹ֱ�� is passionate about improving lives through learning and supporting Welsh businesses to upskill their workforce.

As Project Coordinator for Cwmpas, an economic development agency Thomas was keen to expand his social media knowledge further and signed up for a��Level 3 Social Media for Business qualification.����

“I was looking to undertake something new and social media was an area of my role where I felt I could learn more. For me, the qualification offered a free learning opportunity which I’d be accredited for at the end of it.”��

The Level 3 Social Media for Business Apprenticeship supports learners in developing various digital media skills that can be transferable across many sectors. Equipping learners with the skills knowledge and competency to support business systems, processes and services, the qualification enables learners to use social media in a more efficient and productive way.��

Speaking about the qualification, Thomas commented, “I’ve really enjoyed the qualification and liked that I got to pick and choose the units that best suited my work needs. There are mandatory units to cover your core knowledge but then there’s a huge choice around the units you can tailor fit around you. It enables you to both grow your knowledge and your confidence at the same time.����

“For me learning about Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) and increasing brand visibility was essential learning for engagement. The outcome is that I’ve adapted my approach and engagement with my network has really improved without necessarily advertising.”��

Thomas is a firm advocator of upskilling on the job and believes apprenticeships are a smart and savvy choice for anyone looking to boost their career progression – especially in the current economic climate.����

I’ve always had a big drive and ambition to improve my education. I knew I was worthy of a meaningful career and greater opportunities and recognised I needed to demonstrate that to make it happen. I took the advantage of free training in Wales!��

“I’ve seen a shift from wanting specific A ‘Levels and degrees when hiring, to businesses like Cwmpas that want people to have a good standard of education which is representative of the role you’re going for. This is where apprenticeships come in massively! I’ve not got a degree in Management but I do have a range of qualifications in Leadership & Management, Business Administration and now social media. It makes up a nice package of skills!����

Social Media particularly, is vital in today’s market place as it allows businesses to both attract and engage customers, while increasing market reach. Through his Social Media for Business qualification, Thomas can devise and implement marketing campaigns ideas to drive business and raise the visibility of his current work project.��

“The biggest thing the qualification has given me is the confidence that I’m doing something right. You’re more likely to perform your job better if you feel confident. This qualification gives you tools so you have the knowledge, confidence, experience and know how to figure out how best to adapt your approach.”��

Navigating an apprenticeship alongside work commitments may seem overwhelming but Thomas stresses that with commitment and support, an apprenticeship is a viable option for anyone in the workplace.����

I would absolutely recommend apprenticeships to anyone. They’re not something you do when you’re young and you think you’re not academic. This perception is wrong! Apprenticeships are a viable way of upskilling yourself, showing your responsible and committed to learning while gaining confidence and being an asset to your workplace.�� Also, they’re free!����

“The support from �鶹ֱ�� has been fantastic too. The assessors have always been on hand and provided a great deal of reassurance, guidance and been really encouraging and flexible. My value in the workplace has increased since undertaking my apprenticeships and I’m now in a position to share my knowledge with others in the business.”��

Despite only recently completing his Social Media for Business qualification, Thomas has already set his sights on further qualifications which will enable him to reach his goal of becoming a Business Advisor.����

“I’ve applied to do Community Shares Practitioner Training which will demonstrate my skills as a Business Advisor. For me, it’s about future proofing myself and gaining all the skills I can.”��

If you’d like to learn more about Social Media for Business and how it can future proof your career��click here.

“Prior to my Apprenticeship I was working in a coffee shop, and I knew that it was not what I wanted to do long term,” Carley explains, “I had worked in hospitality and retail since I was in my early teens, but I was finding it very hard to branch away from this as I didn’t have relevant experience.”

At the age of 21, Carley started looking for Apprenticeships based in her home-town of Newport, applying for a one-year Business Administration Level 2 qualification and becoming one of the City Council’s first ever apprentices in the process.

“Being one of the original apprentices was a very exciting time, it was a new experience for the apprentices, the teams that we were placed in, and Newport City Council as a whole,” Carley says. “The amount of effort and time that went into training us and ensuring that we had everything we needed to continue on our career paths was incredible.”

“It has also been a strange journey for me, however, as in the time since my Apprenticeship I have been diagnosed with a degenerative condition that affects my sight. Due to this I have since been registered blind, so I am very lucky that I have received continuous support from colleagues, managers and HR to work around this and find ways to work that suit me too.”

Placed within the Education department, Carley’s Apprenticeship involved supporting the Early Years Integration team by managing calendars, booking and attending meetings, completing digital filing and as a point of contact for partners and nursery settings. She also got to visit early years settings and attend panel meetings, giving her a first-hand understanding of the team’s aims and objectives too.

That was five years ago, and Carley has been employed by Newport City Council ever since, working as a Customer Services Officer, School Support Officer, Administrator with the Child Protection Unit, and currently as a Business Support Officer with the Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (VAWDASV) team.

The Apprenticeship has opened so many doors for me and it has set me up on a career path that I thoroughly enjoy.

“My goals for the future now are to continue my career journey within Newport City Council, wherever that may take me, and to continue to adapt to working life with my condition.” Carley said.

“I would absolutely recommend an Apprenticeship and my advice to young people who are considering this route is that it is truly invaluable. For me, it was a perfect balance of work-based experience and learning an Apprenticeship.”

If you want to find out more about apprenticeship opportunities currently available��head here.