I attended Ballymoney high school and, during my time there, I was really interested in apprenticeships and wanted to find out more about this route. I had noticed a Facebook post about Workplus and decided to apply. All my friends were also interested and now we are currently all involved with apprenticeships.
“I love every minute of it!”
At the beginning, I was paired with a mentor, who is brilliant at guiding me and constantly being a great support. I’m in regular contact with them and, even if I am working from home, they are more than happy to jump on calls or set up meetings if I feel I need help or advice.
In my opinion, the best thing about being an apprentice is the on–the–job learning. The whole experience has really opened up my eyes to the amazing opportunities out there. An apprenticeship is a great way to progress in your career. A highlight so far that really stands out is being able to work on the Royal Victoria hospital which has been the best form of learning for me, as I feel I can get ‘stuck in’ and involved.
I like to ask lots of questions, and everyone is more than happy to help answer any questions that I may have as they know it will help me to learn. The fact I get a salary is an added bonus and I genuinely am passionate about what I do.
I studied full–time before deciding to do an apprenticeship but I found it wasn’t for me. I learn more through hands–on experience rather than passive learning, so I don’t feel I am missing out on the typical university experience. I think that, compared to working or studying full–time, I might not have received the same support or had the same resources available to me, so this is the best decision I’ve made.
My family are so supportive of my decision to do an apprenticeship. They think the amount of opportunities there are for me now is amazing. I am an only child and, initially, they were worried about the support out there for me as no one in my family is an engineer. However, they’re seeing the level of support I’m receiving, and are now so proud and happy for me.
If you are interested in becoming an apprentice, I would go for it! If you are motivated and willing to put the work in, you will succeed at this pathway.
“It’s such a great way to learn, especially if full–time work or education isn’t for you.”
The mentors are always at hand to keep you focused and working towards the next goal. I feel very proud of where I have got to already and the things I have achieved since becoming an apprentice.