#NAW2023 – Meet Christina & Richard

In our final blog for National Apprenticeship Week 2023 we’d like to introduce you to Richard and Christina.

Richard James lives in Basingstoke, Hampshire, and works in our IT team.  Christina Poole works in our people and culture team and shares her experience of the apprenticeship route.

 

Introducing Richard

 

Richard is currently undertaking an apprenticeship as a Software Development Technician.  He started in February 2021 and is due to complete the course shortly. When not at work he enjoys weight training, obstacle races and eating challenges (as you can see in the photo below!)

Why did you choose the Apprenticeship route?

The idea of learning on the job appealed to me.

What does it involve?

I spend 20% of my working time shadowing other members of the team while creating evidence for my portfolio. Studying for short exams and a project at the end.

What do you like about it?

I prefer practical learning.

Are there any downsides?

Answering questionnaires and writing essays!

What do you hope to do after your Apprenticeship?

Further my education in software development.

What advice would you give to others considering an Apprenticeship?

Definitely worth doing if you want to learn on the job.

What support have you received from Workwell for your Apprenticeship?

Everyone on the IT team has been there 100% of the way providing support and teaching me far and beyond what was needed on the course.

 

Christina’s experience

Last month we introduced you to Christina Poole who works in our people & culture team.  She is currently undertaking the HR Level 5 Apprenticeship in People Management & Consultancy. She started in November 2022 and is due to finish in November 2024. Here she explains her Apprenticeship journey…

Why did you choose the Apprenticeship route?

Apprenticeships are underrated, I chose this route because it is the most logical route to work, learn and earn at the same time.

What does it involve?

Doing a lot of assigned by CIPD, writing reflections in my journal to show my progression and being supported by a close-knit cohort.

What do you like about it?

I am learning more and appreciating aspects that I took for granted, regarding skills.

Are there any downsides?

A lot to do, whilst managing my normal job as well.

What do you hope to do after your Apprenticeship?

Stay at my company and progress to train and develop managers. But also, to keep doing Talent Acquisition, as I love to change lives.

What advice would you give to others considering an Apprenticeship?

If you know this is what you want, it is not easy to balance everything, so be prepared to be stressed occasionally. It will be worth it in the end.

What support have you received from Workwell for your Apprenticeship?

I am given one day a week to dedicate to my studies and support from my boss as she is my mentor.

 

Want to join our fabulous team?

Keep an eye on vacancies.