If you want to find a meaningful career, have you considered doing an apprenticeship? An apprenticeship allows you to have a paying job whilst also studying part-time. If you enjoy learning in a practical way, gaining hands on experience and you are not a fan of regular examination methods, an apprenticeship could be the right choice for you.
In celebration of National Apprenticeship Week this year, we are sharing Gina’s story.
Meet Gina
Gina is currently working in the people and organisational development team (POD) at Ealing Council. She started her career at the council in 2014 when she decided to start her level two business administration apprenticeship in the members services department. This allowed her to develop her organisational and time management skills whilst also getting the opportunity to network with councillors, colleagues from all levels in the organisation and find her passion for making a real difference in the community.
Gina then moved to the POD team to complete her level three business administration apprenticeship. This change made it clear for Gina that she really enjoys being the ‘go to’ person for all learning enquiries, supporting managers and other colleagues. She then completed a level three learning and development apprenticeship at the council, whilst continuing to work full-time in the POD team, which she been a valuable member of for the past seven years.
Gina’s experience with apprenticeships
Looking back at her experience, Gina says ‘I am certain that doing my first apprenticeship was the best step I could have taken. I felt supported through the entire process and particularly as a young person, the setup of the programme allowed me to work and learn in a structured way and this has really benefited me. ‘
“Business administration gave me access to a broad range of skills, so I had many options when I completed it. I have never enjoyed taking exams and I preferred learning and working at the same time. I am really grateful as it has also allowed me to have a stable income and a good work life balance.”
“My tutor and I had a great working relationship, and the programme has taught me important skills that I still find myself using in my day-to-day working life now. I feel extremely lucky to have had the support that I did. The apprenticeships helped me figure out what my strengths are, and I am glad to look back and see how every step has led me to my current role. I am now able to train others and make a real difference in the organisation I work for, and this gives me a real sense of purpose.
“I encourage everyone to have a look into the apprenticeships available as there are many options for different sectors, depending on your interests. I whole heartedly recommend choosing to work your way into a career you enjoy.”
Apprenticeships at the council
Ealing Council is currently recruiting for the following level 3 apprenticeship opportunities:
- Safeguarding peer youth advisor apprentice – youth worker
- Information and records apprentice – data technician
- Surveying services apprentice – data technician
- Strategic property support apprentice – business administration.
Apply by 4 December 2022.
How an apprenticeship can benefit you
If you want to find out more and see if an apprenticeship might be for you, visit Work Ealing.
