Grace Dawson

Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship?

I prefer the idea of practical learning rather than studying in a classroom. I think experience in the workplace is very beneficial and is something employers tend to favour as it shows you can actively do the job as well as know your stuff.

How did you find out about your apprenticeship?

I wanted to start something new and was scrolling through vacancies in the area, possibly on indeed or on find an apprenticeship, and came across the role. I wanted to do a generic qualification as I was (and still am!) not entirely sure where I’d like my career to go. Business admin is perfect for this as there is so much included and lots of areas for me to learn more about.

What does your job involve?

I work for an End Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO), meaning that we are responsible for delivering apprenticeship assessments. As an EPAO, we develop and conduct the assessments, assessing the apprentice’s performance and determining a grade as to whether or not that have successfully demonstrated their role criteria. My role includes assessment scheduling, document production i.e. creating support guides for the assessments, communicating with customers, and more.

What’s the coolest thing about your job?

Explosive Learning Solutions (ELS) has lots of ex-military staff who specialise in munitions, explosives, bomb disposal and more. They deliver courses in these areas and also have some amazing stories to tell.

What have you gained from your apprenticeship?

I have gained lots of new skills from my role at ELS. In particular, I have noticed a huge improvement in my IT skills. Previously, I had little to no experience with word, excel, emails, phones etc. but now all are part of my every day duties.

In terms of experience, I have been really lucky in the opportunities I have had. For example, I was able to complete a project planning and controls course with ELS back in July. This was a three day course, alongside my line manager and company director, and it gave me a great insight into project management. My line manager and I have also discussed the possibility of me being enrolled onto a Prince2 management course, which will look great on my CV.

What do you plan to do next?

I plan to stay at ELS upon completion of my qualification, but I have no set plans in the long term.

How did your apprenticeship help you achieve this?

ELS have supported me through my apprenticeship programme and have invested in me as an individual. My apprenticeship course has provided structure for me to learn and be exposed to new things. We are able to factor in the apprenticeship criteria to my role, ensuring I gain experience and competence in a range of different areas.

What advice would you give a young person who might be thinking about an apprenticeship?

I would suggest you have a look on the Institute for Apprenticeships website and have a read of the apprenticeship standard you are looking to apply for. On this site you can find details of the course contents, the job role possibilities available and also information about the qualification. This will help you make a decision on whether or not the course is right for you.

What’s your top tip?

You will never regret gaining real life experience.

How do you feel about becoming an Apprenticeship Ambassador?

I am excited to become an Apprenticeship Ambassador because I will get to meet and share my experience with a range of people. Through this, I will also be able to develop my presentation skills and improve as a communicator.