Apprenticeship helped me discover my career path
❝ I think that the apprenticeship was a great way to get into a working environment and be able to learn at a pace that was right for me as I had never had experience in an office before. Natasha Woods
NATASHA Woods originally entered the world of work straight from school but at the age of 18, she made the decision delve into an apprenticeship, to gain the skills necessary to thrive in her career.
In 2016, Natasha joined Newcross via a level two business administration apprenticeship. The format of the apprenticeship saw her splitting her time 80 per cent work and 20 per cent study on site.
Originally joining the recruitment team, Natasha has now secured a role as a Relationship Executive, acting as a vital point of contact between Newcross, their clients, service users and frontline staff.
Speaking of her experience as an apprentice, Nathasha said: “I wanted a qualification that I could build from, something that would give me direction with a company that would support me.
“An apprenticeship was a brilliant way to start my career with support and training from the business and I’m now in a ful;-time role.
“With the experience I gained, I can see opportunities for the future.
“There are a lot of things that I have learnt. I have gained knowledge and skills to help with customer service, recruitment, speaking to clients and building relationships with both internal and external staff for Newcross.
“The apprenticeship and the support I got from the team around me has helped improve my confidence massively.
“I am aiming to become part of the management team and keep moving forward with my career at Newcross.
“I think that the apprenticeship was a great way to get into a working environment and be able to learn at a pace that was right for me as I had never had experience in an office before.
“I would recommend an apprenticeship as I think it is a great opportunity to gain the experience and skills that college courses wouldn’t be able to offer.
“I was promoted to Relationship Executive last year. I know that it is something with which I would have struggled a few years ago but working as part of such a great team has given me the confidence to progress.
“Within my current position I have been working alongside branch managers and other relationship executives to ensure that we are providing the best experience for clients and staff members.