Understanding apprenticeships

Follow my apprenticeship journey

My name is Elisse Considine, I am 18 years old and have recently started my first ‘proper’ job at Empower Development.

I always knew that university was not for me, so I looked to the route of apprenticeships. For a few years now I have taken an interest in marketing, and I feel lucky to have begun my career as a marketing apprentice with Empower Development. I’m now three months in and it has been an exciting journey so far and I’m going to share my experiences in this blog as it continues.

A bit of background information on apprenticeships, they are hugely beneficial, both to the apprentice and to the employer. Apprentices benefit by learning valuable skills, whilst gaining practical experience and earning a wage. For the employer, hiring an apprentice is an effective way to grow talent and develop a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce.

With my apprenticeship I learn and gain valuable experience, ‘earn as you learn’ is a great way to put it. With my apprenticeship about to commence, I will be spending 20% of my working hours learning and developing through completing classroom-based learning and development activities.

I was very anxious starting as I had never worked in an office environment before, and it’s safe to say I was out of my comfort zone, but everyone was very welcoming and willing to help which helped me settle quickly.

The apprenticeship has allowed me to develop my skills and knowledge in the marketing sector. I have been fortunate enough to have many trips to London to gain a better understanding of the insurance market. I have visited some of the most famous insurance buildings in London including Lloyd’s of London and the Walkie Talkie building, whilst enjoying some business lunches along the way.

Throughout my short time working for Empower Development, I have been given multiple opportunities to work independently and work on growing my confidence. For example, there is currently a series on our Instagram called ‘cover to cover’ which involves me going live once a week  with a colleague discussing the books we have been reading. This is something I have really enjoyed as I have been able to engage with our followers and feel more comfortable speaking and being in front of the camera.

Working for a smaller size business has also allowed me to work with all members of the team. From learning what the MD does to the training providers.  I even have a marketing mentor who helps and guides me.

I would recommend an apprenticeship to anyone who is looking for experience and to try something new. It is the perfect way to get the work experience you need to kick off your career. Since starting my apprenticeship, I have not looked back, it was definitely the right route for me, and it has allowed me to get my foot in the door at Empower Development.

How to know if an apprenticeship is for you?

Apprentices can be at different levels from school leavers and university graduates to people who want to further their career or change direction. There is a misconception that it is for school leavers, but this is not the case. Put simply, you can do an apprenticeship at any age!