Prior to starting my apprenticeship at Cherish Homecare, I was on a pre-apprenticeship programme at Protocol. This involved learning about workplace behaviours, assistance with job applications, CV building, and practising discussions and debates to help build my confidence and prepare me for challenges I may face in the workplace.
During the second half of my Pre-Apprenticeship programme, I gained valuable work experience with a partner company.
I chose to pursue an apprenticeship because I wanted to get the most out of earning a qualification. I recognised that nowadays, companies tend to prioritise experience over the number of qualifications. When gaining a qualification through traditional classroom-based learning alone, there is often little to no real-world experience in the field. Protocol provided a progression route into an apprenticeship with one of their employers, Cherish Homecare.
The apprenticeship programme has personally helped me by boosting my confidence. I find it much easier to speak to people, and I am no longer as afraid to ask questions. I feel much more self-assured and comfortable in workplace interactions. My anxiety around answering phones has completely subsided, as I now know what to expect and how to handle different types of calls professionally.
The biggest challenge I faced when starting my apprenticeship was managing my anxiety when things went wrong. I wasn’t used to dealing with unexpected situations, and it often felt overwhelming. However, Protocol and their amazing tutors have helped me develop strategies to manage my anxiety and build resilience. Through their support and guidance, I have learned how to stay calm under pressure and approach challenges with a more positive mindset. My Protocol tutor has been incredibly supportive throughout this journey, helping me gain the confidence to navigate difficult situations.
Future (within next year):
Complete my level 3 Business Administrator Apprenticeship and be working in a full-time position
Future (5 years’ time):
I would like to be working in a full-time position within the NHS
Tips:
Age: 19
Employer: Cherish Homecare
Job Role: Business Admin Apprentice
Qualification: Business Administrator Level 3
Don’t stop now! Keep reading to explore more learner case studies where they detail what they experienced during their training programme, how it benefitted them, and what the future has in store.
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