1. Why did you choose to do Apprenticeship-based training?
It seemed like a useful way to demonstrate the practical application of knowledge, and my line manager is very supportive of Apprenticeships generally so there was less buy-in required over just classroom based learning.
2. What qualifications did you have before applying for your Apprenticeship course? Did you have to undertake any other qualifications before starting this course?
I had CIPD Level 3 Certificate, and a Diploma from TAFE (an Australian FE institute) as well as high school certificates form Australia. I did need to undertake Functional Maths and English during the apprenticeship as my high school certificates hadn’t been converted to UK standards.
3. How did you find out about your Apprenticeship?
I attended a WLD (work learn develop) session when it first opened.
4. What have you gained from your Apprenticeship – skills, experience etc.?
A greater understanding of how Human Resources impacts an organisation and report writing skills, also the need for greater evidence based HR.
5. What has been your proudest moment so far from doing your Apprenticeship?
Writing the HR Strategy for Kellogg College.
6. What do you plan to do next? / What are you doing now?
I have recruited an apprentice of my own and am expanding the HR function at Kellogg College in regards to the strategy.
7. How will your/has your Apprenticeship helped you to achieve this?
I have a better idea how to run a HR project and solicit employee ideas and a better idea of what areas around the employee relations need to be encouraged or worked on.
8. What advice would you give a person who might be thinking about Apprenticeship-based training to progress their career?
To consider the time investment that is involved, this is not only from the course work, but also the practicalities for their current position, i.e. are you able to have the support from your line manager and other members of the department/team to undertake the apprenticeship, or implement anything that is learnt on the course? It is extremely rewarding when that support is given but could be frustrating if not.
9. What advice would you give a manager who is considering Apprenticeship-based training for their employee?
Be understanding of the amount of time and extra support that the employee may need for any assignments and study that the employee will have. Also support and advice to demonstrate the application of what is learnt in the classroom to how its applied in work, particularly when its outside of the normal job role.
