Published : Thu 6th Feb
Chantelle had been working at the Trust for a while in various roles but wanted to try something new. She applied for the apprenticeship when it was advertised and was then able to change roles internally and enrol. She has now completed and moved into a Project Officer role, building on the knowledge, skill and behaviours she learned while studying and so we asked her to share her story:
Why did you first choose to apply for an apprenticeship?
I have worked for the National Trust for many years now, and I have gained experienced in a range of different properties and areas from being a Food & Beverage Team Leader to a Facilities co-ordinator. I have a huge array of knowledge, skills and experience and I wanted to pull it all together under one qualification. I have always liked the thought of project management; I am a people person and for those who know me know I am extremely organised! I saw the National Trust were advertising for an APM apprenticeship, which for me was brilliant as I got to learn a qualification whilst also working and earning at the same time.
Best thing about the apprenticeship?
There were a lot of positives throughout the apprenticeship, I liked the fact it was online based, and I didn't need to go back to college or university to study. The best thing about the apprenticeship was the people I met and went through the journey with, and the fact we still all meet and catch up regularly!
Any challenges?
Juggling a full-time job whilst studying can be challenging, however, by having a supportive line manager and team it really helped me to overcome this challenge and have the space I needed to fulfil the apprenticeship needs.
How have the training provider/college supported you?
We had monthly group meetings where the provider would deliver our modules and set the scene for what we needed to study. We were then given online packs to study and working books to complete per module. They also supported us by having 1-1 mentoring sessions each month to have focussed time with a member of staff. They were very understanding of your work/life balance and were able to move deadlines to suit you.
What are your plans for the future?
My plan is to continue to build my experience in projects to make my CV the best it can be and exposing myself to as much as I can in the project environment. Once I have built up my experience I would like to become a project manager!
Any advice for anyone thinking of doing an apprenticeship?
Go for it!! It is a great way to learn new skills, experience and meet some amazing people along the way. Everyone has been so open with sharing their experiences with me and taking me under their wing to make me the person I am today.
