Apprentice Stories

What is your current role?

When I first started at Harborough District Council, I was part of the housing team. My role there was to help manage the temporary accommodation we provide to the homeless. I now work across the three teams in regulatory services (environmental health, licensing and food safety), mainly completing a lot of admin tasks, but there are plenty of opportunities for me to get out and about around the district.

What was the apprenticeship you did?

I was recruited as an apprentice and started my apprenticeship immediately when I first started at the council. It was a level 2 Housing apprenticeship.

Why did you apply for the apprenticeship position?

I didn’t want to go to university, it just wasn’t for me! As I wasn’t sure what I really wanted to do career wise, I thought an apprenticeship was a good way of learning, but also earning at the same time.

What were the best parts of your apprenticeship?

The best part of my apprenticeship was definitely the fact that, although my primary job was very focused on just temporary accommodation, I was still able to gain valuable experience in many aspects of housing. This sort of experience is great when exploring ways to progress your career. Even if you want to change fields, it’s still a qualification you didn’t have at the start.

What were the challenges?

You must be prepared to put in the effort. For some (including myself) time management doesn’t always come easy, especially when you’re balancing your coursework and your job. Luckily for me, I was fortunate to be part of a team that always supported me.  

How did you find the apprenticeship requirement work eg projects and assignments?

Other than managing time, the hardest part was trying not to waffle in my essays. Always make sure that you are clear and concise, and that you present your work in an engaging way.

What happened at the end of your apprenticeship?

When I took on the role it was fixed term as all apprenticeships are, so I always knew that there was a chance my time in housing may come to an end. Thankfully, my current manager had seen how hard I’d be working and was very keen for me to apply for my current position. I’m still here so I must be doing something right!  

What advice would you give to a new apprentice?

Always ask for support if you need it. Anything worth doing is never going to be easy, but there will always be someone wanting to help you succeed. 

How has the apprenticeship helped you in your career or in your current role?

My new role is a complete change of field from what I did my apprenticeship in, however it has provided me with valuable experiences and skills that I will always have with me. It has also given me a good understanding of how apprenticeships work in case I wish to complete a higher-level qualification.

What is next for you?

There may be another higher-level apprenticeship opportunity soon…. All I can do is work hard and help the people in our district as best as I can.