After studying in College for a few weeks straight from Sixth Form, Rachel realised she needed a change and wanted to start learning in a different way outside of the classroom environment. After seeing St Helens Chamber’s Fast Track to Apprenticeships courses advertised, Rachel decided this practical route was more suited to her and wasted no time in getting enrolled!
Rachel explained: “I wanted a change and I saw the Chamber were offering a more practical route so I decided to go along. The Fast Track to Apprenticeships course offered more life skills and we went out and actually experienced things which I think is much more important. I went straight from college into the course and it gave me the change I needed”.
Rachel took full advantage of the course and everything it has to offer, particularly enjoying learning about subjects which could help her into her dream career.
Rachel said: “I found the CV building really useful. We also did different tasks where we would go out in groups and complete tasks involving problem solving and that was really useful. I learned how to work in a team and this has been really helpful in my current job.
“The range of different activities on the Fast Track to Apprenticeships course really appealed to me; you learn how to apply for jobs and what to expect in a business environment – office etiquette, how to behave in a workplace… this was really helpful for me when I was settling in”.
Rachel started as a Business Administration Apprentice for St Helens Council in 2018; she has been enjoying learning on the job and has become a valued member of the team.
Rachel explained: “My role is split across Childcare and Debt Recovery. When I’m in Childcare I send out letters, prepare documents for court, scan and upload documents onto our case management system and deal with solicitor requests.
“When I’m in Debt Recovery I create letters to send to debtors and make payment cards. Both departments are very busy but I’m really enjoying it”.
Rachel is excelling in her job since starting has been given the role of Clerical Officer, a role in which she continues to learn and develop her skills.
“I learned so much from the Fast Track to Apprenticeships course, but the communication and workplace skills have particularly helped me get to where I am now.
“I’ve already recommended the course to three of my friends who have now started; I’d recommend it to anyone looking to get into a job who might not want to go to college. You’re treated like an adult in the workplace and not a college student, which was a much better fit for me.”
If you’d like to find out more about the practical training and opportunities a Fast Track to Apprenticeships course can offer, call on 01744 742045 or email apprenticeships@sthelenschamber.com
