This week is National Apprenticeship Week, and we’re sharing some of the stories of our people who have been apprentices at The Barnet Group and have now gone on to full time employment. Here, Stella tells her story:
“I knew in Sixth Form that university wasn’t for me and I wanted to apply for an apprenticeship instead. When lockdown hit, I found it very difficult to find any work as I had no experience.
“I then found out about the apprenticeship programme with the Barnet Group through the Barnet First eNewsletter. I applied through the TBG jobs page where I had to attach my CV and write a supporting statement and the application closed in July. I then interviewed in August and was told that I was successful in August, and started in September. I was given the ‘BOOST Apprentice’ role. The wage is £14,000 per year.
“I gained so much experience over the 14 months and learnt about housing, benefits, social media and employment support. I also gained multiple qualifications including housing practice, safeguarding adults, and customer service. Being able to gain hands-on experience while gaining a qualification was essential in preparing me for my future career.
“All of this led to me acquiring a permanent position as a Youth Employment Officer with BOOST at the end of my apprenticeship as well as being awarded Apprentice of the Year.