Bethan, from Huyton, worked as a Business Administration Apprentice at Knowsley Community College, as part of the WorkWorld Team, and since completing her apprenticeship, has gained full-time employment at St Helens College and Knowsley Community College.
After completing her GCSEs at Broughton Hall School, Bethan continued on to sixth form, gaining three A levels in Media Studies, Performance Studies and Finance, before choosing to progress on to a Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy course at Knowsley Community College.
Bethan said, “During my time at College, I also worked full-time in Asda to financially support myself during my studies. I think this was what attracted me to an apprenticeship because I have always been earning and this way I was earning a wage and gaining experience and knowledge in a new role.”
After completing her studies at College, there was an opportunity for Bethan to progress into a higher role at Asda to Section Leader. Unfortunately, after completing the in-house training the opportunity to progress did not arise and she quickly realised she was ready to move on to a new challenge.
Shortly after beginning her search for a new role, Bethan spotted a Business Administration Apprenticeship vacancy with the WorkWorld Team at Knowsley Community College. Speaking about the process, she said, “I saw the vacancy on the website and submitted my application and CV by email. I sent it across to the apprenticeship team and shortly after I was invited in to attend an interview. The application process was very smooth and I heard back within a few days to say I had the job!”
When applying, Bethan wasn’t sure that she would be successful in gaining her apprenticeship as she didn’t have any previous experience of working in education but she identified that a big part of the job role was delivering excellent customer service, which she knew she could excel at through her experience at Asda. Eighteen months into her apprenticeship, Bethan completed her framework four months earlier than expected.
Within her role, Bethan helped with the day-to-day running of a busy office, answering course enquiries on the telephone and helping to arrange and assist with initial assessments.
When talking about her apprenticeship, Bethan said, “I loved the flexibility as I was able to complete most of the work at home or whilst working in the office. Although at times it was challenging, when I was working towards deadlines, the support that I received from my assessor and manager helped me so much. I loved having the opportunity to help students on their courses such as offering support to adults who wanted to get back into employment and it’s a great feeling knowing that I have helped them on their journey and achieving success.”
WorkWorld Manager, Susan Kelly, said, “Bethan’s hardworking attitude and determination showed throughout her apprenticeship and to hear that she had completed her framework four months earlier than expected is no surprise! I am extremely proud of Bethan’s contribution to the WorkWorld team. Her apprenticeship has allowed her to develop both professionally and personally and has given her the confidence to excel in her role.”
Since completing her apprenticeship, Bethan has gained full-time employment as School Liaison & Events Coordinator, supporting the apprenticeship and school liaison team to recruit students and apprentices.