We’re recognising the achievements of a key part of our workforce this National Apprenticeship Week (4-8 March), which aims to celebrate the impact of apprentices on individuals, employers and the economy.
Forming almost 10% of our workforce, our 317 apprentices play a key role in the work Hft does supporting adults with learning disabilities to live the best life possible. From finance assistants to support workers, our apprentices are gaining on-the-job training to equip them with the relevant skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their fields.
Read on to find out more about some of the apprentices who have found their place at Hft.
Lee Parry
Lee undertook his apprenticeship in Bradford as a Team Leader, completing a Level 5 Leadership and Management qualification in Adult Social Care Services.
Now in a new role as Digital Learning and Development Specialist at Hft, Lee’s apprenticeship has provided him with valuable leadership skills, putting him in an ideal position to apply for his new job.
Lee says:
“My apprenticeship helped to give me the confidence to apply for the Digital Learning & Development Specialist role. I feel there are definitely many transferable skills and I now use what I learned to advise and support managers and other staff around the country on all Hft systems. This new role felt like a natural progression from my previous position and I believe the apprenticeship assisted in making the transition as smooth as it has been.”
Riley King
20 year old Riley King has been an apprentice at Hft since July 2018. She works in the finance department at our Bristol office, and is currently part of the Purchase Ledger team. After doing her A Levels, Riley decided that although University wasn’t for her, she still wanted to work towards further qualifications.
Riley is now undertaking her AAT Level 3 qualification as part of her Level 3 apprenticeship at Hft. As well as working full time, she spends several evenings a week preparing for her forthcoming exams. She’s also building up a portfolio of projects demonstrating specific skills and behaviours such as communication and team work.
Riley said:
“I recommend apprenticeships to everyone I know! It’s great to be able to work in a job that you enjoy while being paid to earn a qualification that will really help you in the long term.
“Doing an apprenticeship has built up my confidence so much. It’s given me a chance to put what I’m learning into practice, making it so much easier to understand. I also have a great manager, Helen, who is really supportive. She’s even offered up her own time to support me with exams. I’m hoping to stay at Hft for the foreseeable future – I can tell I’m valued here and I feel like there are opportunities to work my way up in the organisation.”
Rebecca Allonby and Paula Wilson
Rebecca Allonby is an apprentice from Newcastle and Paula Wilson is an apprentice based in Bradford. Both Rebecca and Paula have been awarded Learner of the Month from our apprenticeship provider, GP Strategies, which delivers over 3,000 qualifications a year.
Paula Wilson received the award for her outstanding work, excellent communication skills and commitment whilst studying for the RQF Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care.
GP Strategies said:
“When observing Paula, she has shown excellent communications skills which are tailored towards each individual she supports. Paula is quick to adapt her abilities to support each individual and this is displayed within a manner which is person-centred, dignified, patient and respectful.
“The training which Paula has received to encourage and empower her job role is outstanding. The management team listen and acknowledge Paula when she has concerns, ideas or opinions on matters concerning the service or the people she supports.”
Rebecca was recognised for her excellent level of knowledge in health and social care. In the nomination for Rebecca, GP Strategies stated:
“Rebecca shows care, compassion and commitment in her work role. She is consistent in her skills and ensures she delivers the best quality care for the individuals she supports. Rebecca is ahead in her targets and takes time to offer support to her fellow staff members. She always allows time for others, even when she is busy”.
Get involved in National Apprenticeship Week using the hashtag #NAW2019 and our Twitter handle @Hftonline.
