Apprenticeships are a fantastic way for individuals to grow their skills and knowledge within their existing job. An LMP learner that benefitted greatly from this aspect of apprenticeships is Rachael Fortune, a Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant from Sefton Park School. Here is her story:
“I chose this apprenticeship programme because I wanted to develop my career and as I have an interest in pastoral care. The programme fits with my work and could offer the support I needed and the qualification that suited me.
The main benefits of the programme are the skills I have learnt and that I can fit them well into to my day-to-day work. It also gives me a chance to improve and go for Jobs with more content and responsibility.
During my apprenticeship, I got the chance to repeat my maths and English GCSE. With the individual support I received I was able to achieve this. I have also developed a lot more confidence at work and dealing with children with more diverse needs.
The best thing about my role is working in the pastoral area. I have developed such close relationships with families of the children I work with. This enables me to support the children better and I enjoy doing this.
In my role am able to support my colleagues, families and the pupils of the school in a more pastoral way when they are struggling and also deal with outside agency such as CAMH’s and Social services in a more confident and professional manner.
The support on this course is fantastic. I have had many one-to-one meetings and there is always a quick response to any questions I email. The tutors are friendly and very approachable.
I have learnt many skills so it is difficult to say but I would say a key one I’ve learnt is being patient, understanding and knowing we can’t solve everything but can always try.
After completing my apprenticeship, I would love to work in a more pastoral role but unsure as to what that will be yet.”
Best of luck in the future Rachael!
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