National Apprenticeship Week

#NAW2022

‘Build the Future’

A collaboration between Marcia Blagg at RHG and Dawn Loveless, graduate of the SHE Apprenticeship Programme at RHG, employed by Capita Public Services.

Why 1954?   That’s the year my Dad started his Apprenticeship in Carpentry.   His own Dad signed the papers allowing him to participate, along with his employer.

Much as Dawn’s experience on her apprenticeship programme, he was employed and earned while he learned, in his case splitting time between the workplace and College.

Today an Apprenticeship in Carpentry takes between 2 and 3 years, whereas my Dad completed his Apprenticeship in 1959, making it a five year commitment on his part.   I can’t compare the content of the two programmes but I do know I could show my Dad a sketch of something I liked, from a humble box to store my vintage vinyl, to a full blown kitchen……and my Dad just made it.   An Apprenticeship really does equip you with skills for life.

Dawn explained that on her programme her role as Venue Receptionist at Capita, gave her a set of challenges my Dad wouldn’t have had. 

“Time management was my biggest challenge. Whilst working full time in a face to face role with many interruptions, having the time and structure to work on gaining the knowledge on a strong subject is hard.”.

But the reward for Dawn is clear to see.  

“I have completed my apprenticeship and achieved a distinction.  That is the reward that I am personally most proud of. The subject matter is varied and challenging. My Tutor constantly worked with me to achieve the highest standard for my Portfolio and presentation work.”

My Dad was a very proud man, so I know he would have felt exactly the same as Dawn when receiving his certificate on completion of his own apprenticeship.   Especially as it is dated 5^th February 1959; his 21st birthday!

So, almost seventy years on, the model of the Apprenticeship doesn’t appear to have changed a great deal and that must be for the reason that they work.   For the employer, for the individual and for building the future.

If this has given you a nudge to consider an apprenticeship programme, Dawn also offers these words of wisdom. 

“My advice would be to do your research on your subject.  An apprenticeship is challenging and will impact on your work and personal life.  This is due to the learning, knowledge and experience that is built up over the programme for you to smash the End Point Assessments.  You must have passion about the subject you have chosen, as the commitment that you must provide to be successful is huge.  If you have the passion, then the time and learning is enjoyable with many a light-bulb moment.”