7th-13th February 2022 marks ‘National Apprenticeships Week’, an annual celebration of apprentices and the difference they can make to UK businesses. In recognition of the event, the Glazerite UK Group is highlighting the contribution made by two of its own employees who have been through the fabricator’s apprentice route.
Company Accountant, Amanda Newman, is currently undertaking her Level 4 CIMA Apprenticeship. Based at Glazerite’s head office in Wellingborough, 56-year-old Amanda seized the opportunity to further her training via an apprenticeship. She says: “Though it does feel harder studying as an adult, I am really lucky to have been given the opportunity, and I’ve been well supported by Glazerite. It has been challenging at times, but it’s really helped me to fill in the gaps in my knowledge, much of which had been previously ‘self-taught.’”
Amanda adds: “The apprenticeship has made me feel better able to carry out my role and love my job even more. I want to continue to challenge myself and develop even more skills. I’ve proved that it’s never too late to learn and it is always worth giving it your best shot, whatever your age.”
Mia Harrison has just completed her Customer Service Level 3 apprenticeship with a Distinction and is now a trainee Customer Advisor at the fabricator’s Wellingborough site. Mia, 19, who joined Glazerite after sixth form, says: “I knew that university wasn’t the right path for me. I wanted to continue to learn and work towards more qualifications, however, so an apprenticeship was very appealing.
“It has enabled me to learn new skills, and I’ve become much more confident in my abilities. Being able to actually put my learning into practice in a working environment has really helped as I’ve been able to learn so much about the industry firsthand. I’m really enjoying my new role as a Customer Advisor; it shows what opportunities are out there and I would definitely encourage more people to consider an apprenticeship.”
Mia welcomes the encouragement and support she’s received from her Glazerite colleagues during her studies, and both she and Amanda have been praised by their line managers and the fabricator’s directors for their commitment to self-development, their roles, and the business itself.
HR Advisor, Laura Rorke, who started her human resources career as a Glazerite apprentice knows first-hand the benefits the scheme brings. She says: “I was able to combine my CIPD management qualification while learning on the job; getting hands-on experience and putting theory into practice is such a great way to learn and develop a career. Mia has really blossomed in the time she’s been with us; it’s great to see her grow in confidence, successfully complete her apprenticeship and start her new role. “
Amanda is also a fantastic resource and has demonstrated that the apprenticeship route is not just for school leavers. It’s an ideal route for those of any age who want to gain a recognised qualification or switch careers.”