Apprentice Steven Marsh is set for a bright future after gaining qualifications in customer service at a local private health club.
After leaving school, Steven decided to pursue an Apprenticeship as he wanted to gain hands on experience in dealing with customers. Overcoming initial difficulties with English and Maths exams, through his dedication and perseverance, Steven has completed an Apprenticeship in Customer Service with local health club, Ruskin Health & Fitness.
He said: “I hoped an Apprenticeship would help me gain confidence and experience and what I have learned has been remarkable. Dealing with customers is a great job. We have lots of members at the gym and we always want them to keep coming back. I make sure that they have a good time and that they are safe, and feel comfortable and welcome.”
Throughout his Apprenticeship, Steven was supported by a dedicated Training Adviser from St Helens Chamber.
He said: “Lee Johnson, my training adviser has been very helpful and I can’t thank him enough. If I had any problems or concerns he would be the first person I would contact.
“In the future, I would like to continue dealing with customers, maybe at a higher level. But I am happy with what I am doing now and am making good progress with it.”
Steven was nominated by his Training Adviser for an Apprentice of the Year award, for the progress he has made within his Apprenticeship and his attitude throughout the process.
Lee Johnson, Training Adviser at St Helens Chamber, said: “Steven is very dedicated when it comes to his work and did not miss any appointments and always ensured his work was completed to the best of his ability.
“Steven has Asperger’s and found it challenging sometimes to understand what was required in his customer service diploma, especially in the way the criteria was worded. But through his own dedication Stephen pushed himself and was also able to pass his Maths and English exams.
“He has a wonderful way with all of his customers and has developed excellent relationships with them, making them feel welcome and going out of his way to support them when using the gym.
“Steven has felt a sense of achievement in completing his qualification and fitting into his job role and being part of the overall team.”
Ruskin St Helens manages a health and fitness club, bar, function suite and offices. As a Chamber member they have received support with their employee growth plans and Apprenticeships.
Diane Palfrey, Marketing Manager at Ruskin, said: “Taking on an Apprentice from St Helens Chamber has helped our business take customer service up a level.
“We know that the training and support that they give to our Apprentices is first rate and we would definitely recommend St Helens Chamber to anyone thinking of taking on an Apprentice.
“We have already taken on another Apprentice with the Chamber.”
Diane also commented on Stephen’s development within the organisation, through his Apprenticeship. She said: “Stephen’s personal progress has been brilliant. He has really pushed himself outside of his comfort zone and the Apprenticeship has boosted his confidence. He is a great asset to the team.”
To find out more about Apprenticeships with St Helens Chamber visit https://www.sthelenschamber.com/startingpoint or call 01744 698800
For more on Ruskin visit the website at www.ruskinsthelens.com
