To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, we sent out some questions to our apprentices. We were aiming to find out about their views on a variety of topics surrounding apprenticeships and professional development so that we could better understand the experiences of apprentices in our company and the wider industry.
They explored the different aspects of why they chose an apprenticeship, what their role entails, the opportunities which MGF provide and how an apprenticeship is preparing them for a career compared to traditional further education. Keep reading to see what they had to say!
How has MGF encouraged continued professional development since completing your apprenticeship?
“MGF will support their employees through learning and development, and I have been very fortunate to have completed two further qualifications since starting my apprenticeship: Level 5 CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) HR Management Higher Level Apprenticeship and Level 3 Award in Education and Training.”
What advantages do you think an apprenticeship has?
“I think the main advantage of completing an apprenticeship is that you are earning valuable workplace experience while you learn the theoretical side of your field. I believe this creates more efficient workers, as an apprentice can have knowledge and experience at an earlier stage in their career.”
What made you pursue an apprenticeship with MGF?
“I needed a job coming out of college after completing my Level 3 IT Diploma as I had decided university was not for me. I was attracted to an apprenticeship due to the idea of gaining experience and qualifications while also earning a wage. MGF was offering a perfect opportunity for this which I was guided to by my college.”
What attracted you to taking the apprenticeship route?
“I didn’t want to study full time at University and as the apprenticeship is a mixture of part time studying as well as working in the industry, it was a good balance that suited what I wanted. The apprenticeship will also give me experience in the industry while I learn with colleagues who can give support and guidance.”
What has been your favourite aspect of work life during your apprenticeship?
“Mixing theory and practical work due to being on a day release at Salford University would be my favourite aspect. With this I can maintain a good work life balance. Being able to apply my work based learning to university and vice-versa has made both my work and university life easier.”
Our apprentices have all been very passionate about trying to communicate the benefits of apprenticeships to students who may currently be at a crossroads in how they want to continue their education.
Find out more about MGF’s apprenticeships here.
