My Journey from School, to an Apprenticeship, to Employment

Navigating from education into employment can seem daunting, challenging and confusing, especially if you are keen to continue your studies but unsure what direction to take. I hope that this blog will provide some insight into my journey as I transitioned from Sixth Form into an apprenticeship, into a permanent role.

After applying to University during Sixth Form as the majority of my peers were, I began to realise that I was keen to continue my studies to degree level without relocating to University, and simultaneously sought an opportunity to stretch and challenge myself.

Initially, I had quickly dismissed apprenticeships and upon further research, realised I could achieve a degree whilst working and building practical experience. When speaking to the Careers Advisor at Sixth Form, I came across a ‘Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship’ at a local housing association whereby I would study Level 4 Senior Housing Manager, followed by Level 5 and 6 Chartered Management Degree, with the intention to transition into a permanent role upon completion.

There are many places to look for an apprenticeship, such as the Gov.uk apprenticeship search, recruitment websites, and directly on the company’s website. A key element to remember with apprenticeships is that they are advertised all year round, and it may be worth taking time to consider what apprenticeship you would want to complete before rushing to apply for one, as you need to be interested and invested in both the company and the course. It is worth investing time to research the company, apprenticeship course, and where this could take you.

When applying for apprenticeships, ensure you tailor your application and any supporting documents to be specific to the apprenticeship, company and course. It is likely that you would be required to attend an interview or a group session to support the application process. There are many useful resources with further advice and guidance on interview preparation and practice questions, I would definitely recommend practicing ahead of an interview or assessment day.

When starting any job or apprenticeship, in the first few days it is natural to feel nervous or apprehensive. Remember that you are not the first new starter, and you won’t be the last, and everyone has been in your position at some point! Whilst you may not remember everyone’s names to begin with, aim to be engaging, approachable and introduce yourself to new people. It may be beneficial to meet other people who have completed the apprenticeship course, or an apprenticeship with the company, to build a rapport and network with others in a similar circumstance to you. For me, I was fortunate to have multiple colleagues complete the same apprenticeship which enabled us to support each other.

The practical experience in the workplace will vary between sectors and industries. In the early stages of my apprenticeship, I rotated departments around the business to understand more about each team and how they contributed to our overall purpose. This was daunting as it felt like I was starting a whole new job every time I moved departments, however upon reflection, it helped me to realise which department I am best suited to, which is front line housing.

Knowing what to do at the end of an apprenticeship can provoke feelings of uncertainty and anxiousness. Some people may consider another level of apprenticeship or looking to transition into a full time role. When I started my role, I agreed to progress from Level 4 Senior Housing Manager to Level 5 and 6 Chartered Management Degree. As I made the transition to the next level apprenticeship, I reflected on my Level 4 apprenticeship and considered what I could do differently to make the journey easier and smoother. A key improvement was keeping updated with the ‘off-the-job’ log, which whilst being a mandatory requirement as part of an apprenticeship, felt tiring and monotonous. I set myself the aim to keep updated with the log during the Level 6 apprenticeship and update the log regularly and this definitely improved my apprenticeship experience.

During the transition from one apprenticeship to the next, I was surprised by the change in assessment and grading from the Level 4 to the Level 6 degree, and the different in referencing styles. Whilst there are many transferable skills when progressing from one apprenticeship level to the next, it is important to consider the next level apprenticeship as a new opportunity and a fresh start.

As I progressed through the Level 6 degree apprenticeship, I began informally exploring what my position would look like upon apprenticeship completion. I liaised with colleagues and managers to understand if there would be capacity to remain in the current team on a permanent contract or apply for another role within the business. I found these conversations hugely beneficial to help me prepare for what to expect and would recommend trying to initiate these conversations if you are looking to transition from the apprenticeship into a permanent role.

I applied for the permanent role with approximately 12 months left on the degree apprenticeship, as a role came up in a team that I was passionate about. I was fortunately offered the position and then adjusted to completing my apprenticeship whilst in a permanent position and taking on additional responsibilities. At times this was challenging to manage the demands of both the apprenticeship and role, however, I had a strong support network around me of a mentor, manager and peers. Although it may feel daunting to have open and honest conversations about workloads, stress levels, mental health and wellbeing, this is essential to utilise your support network and help you achieve a balance between work, apprenticeship and a personal life.

I feel so grateful to have undertaken an apprenticeship and connect with the huge apprenticeship community out there and would strongly recommend this to other apprentices. There is a wealth of knowledge and support through the Placer Network, Association of Apprentices and Apprentice Ambassador Network.

My top 3 tips for transitioning into an apprenticeship and employment:

• Connections – connections, networks and people are essential in any role or apprenticeship. Be brave and introduce yourself to new people.
• New Opportunities – in any apprenticeship or employment setting, there will be new opportunities for you. Consider your capacity and consider saying ‘yes’ to help build new skills, new networks, and demonstrate your willingness to succeed.
• Be You – lastly, being yourself is so important in any environment. Whilst this may seem like a cliché piece of advice, it is so true! Try to present your honest and authentic self and enjoy the experience, and the journey it takes you on!

I hope this blog provides an insight into my experience and feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn. 

 

Jasmine King

Customer Success Officer at Flagship Group, Award Winning Degree Apprentice, Former Vice-Chair of Apprentice Council at Association of Apprentices, Apprentice Ambassador