GleeTalks: Apprenticeship FAQs with Dion Fletcher

It’s National Apprenticeship Week. We work in partnership with Key Training; an apprenticeship programme that offers aspiring jobseekers their first opportunity to experience a professional working environment. Here’s one of our favourites, Dion Fletcher, answering some frequently asked questions.

What made you want to be a part of an apprentice programme? 

After spending two years in college and working part-time in retail, I decided that I wanted to get onto the job ladder properly and start a career in something. I knew that I wanted to improve my employability with a new qualification, but I didn't want to be in full-time education. I did some research, and I found that an apprenticeship program would allow me to study towards a qualification whilst gaining experience in a fulltime role, which seemed ideal. 

How did you feel on your first day?

Nervous. It was my first time working within a corporate organisation, but I knew that the skills that I would learn here would be transferable to most working environments. I was excited to meet new people and work alongside experienced staff, but I did worry that I would be the youngest in the office and struggle to make friends. It was a bit scary, but I was given a really warm welcome and a lot of support and training which made me feel comfortable and confident in my role.

What have you learnt from being on the programme?

I have developed skills in communication, organisation, leadership and management, administration, IT, CRM systems... the list goes on. I have learnt a lot about how recruitment works, and I have had key training in project management, marketing and external factors affecting recruitment.

Has your experience been different from how you expected it to be? If so, how? 

I have learnt so much more than I ever expected. I have been given the freedom to explore and support other areas of the business that I have an interest in like training to become a fire marshal and assisting in events organisation. I feel like this experience has given me the confidence to communicate with people at all levels of seniority, which is a skill that I hadn't considered before. 

What advice would you give to someone who is considering an apprenticeship?

If you want to gain new skills and earn while you learn, then it's something that you should consider. If there is a particular industry or career path that you want to get into and you're not sure how to get your foot in the door, an apprenticeship is a great way to gain relevant work experience and qualifications for a specific role. You get real-life working experience, gain transferrable skills and earn a proper wage alongside studying; if that sounds like something you want to do, then I say go for it. 

Dion found her apprenticeship through Key Training, click here for more information.