Published : Wed 1st Feb
Alex tried a number of different roles before realising that he wanted to learn while he was earning, so an apprenticeship with an analytical slant was the perfect solution.
Why did you choose that specific apprenticeship?
I chose this specific apprenticeship as I knew it would be work of an analytical nature. It requires problem solving and logic which are things I need in a job to keep me focused! The other pulling factor was being able to work for the Trust! Such a unique organisation, I was really excited and intrigued by all the possible areas I could be auditing!
Was there any decision between the apprenticeship route and any other route?
I did actually go to university for a year and half. I loved the educational side but I needed something more structured and routine based. When I left university, the only thing I did know was that I had no idea what I wanted to do! I worked multiple jobs such as: Firefighter, Postman, Fraud Analyst & Articulated Dumper Truck Driver! I knew I was missing that educational side and came to the conclusion I wanted an apprenticeship! Best decision I’ve ever made.
What has been your proudest achievement on your apprenticeship to date?
There are so many things the apprenticeship has enabled me to work on and be proud of. I think some of my proudest achievements after 14 months would be, leading my own audit, passing my Internal Audit Practitioner exam and, being nominated by my team for apprentice of the year with the Institute of Internal Audit!
How do you see your apprenticeship helping you in your career progression?
I have learnt so much about myself, the job role and about the organisation. All of the skills are transferrable and will help me with whatever I decide to do. After my final exams, I hope I’ll be able to stay at the Trust, gain some more experience and keep learning from my team. Then I would really like to go for the level 7 CIA qualification.
What would your advice be to anyone thinking about doing an apprenticeship?
Go for it! Getting a professional qualification, practical job experience, improving your soft skills and getting paid for it all! Just make sure you research the company or organisation you apply for! This will help for your interviews but more importantly gives you a good idea of whether or not you want to work for them!
