Abbie Keogh: Level 3 Business and Administration - Institute of Clinical Sciences

Abbie first became aware of the Universities Pre-Apprentice Programme from the newspaper. The position was as an Administration Assistant in the Institute of Integrative Biology. Abbie has had no previous work experience before this position so was unsure of what to expect. She said the role was better than she had anticipated as everyone was really supportive and there appeared to be plenty of chances to progress and improve.

Abbie attended college one day a week which allowed her to pass her functional skills qualifications; the qualifications were her biggest interest when applying to the Programme. Abbie enjoyed her college experience, it really helped with her role and development. She said the classes were quite small but this works as she felt that there was more support available if needed and that she could interact a lot better with other students. She made friends from the Programme who she has remained in contact with.

Abbie lacked confidence before she started the programme. She feels the programme gave her work experience with on the job training which really helped her develop her confidence and communication. She now feels as though she is more responsible.

In 2015 Abbie received her functional skills and was offered a Level 2 apprenticeship within her department. She was relieved as she would not have been able to advance in her qualification without her functional skills.

The Skills Company was appointed as her training provider. They supported Abbie whilst she worked towards her Level 2 qualification. Abbie said she received excellent support throughout the training from both the provider and the University. She then progressed and passed her Level 3 in Business Administration.

“I feel as though the pre-apprenticeship allows you to concentrate on gaining the qualifications you need to get an apprenticeship. Once you go on to the apprenticeship you then have more of a chance to gain experience and progress. The College and my team were always willing to give extra time and support to help me to deal with any stress I was experiencing due to the outcome of my qualifications. This really helped me to grow and gain confidence in myself and what I am capable of.”

Abbie has now gained a full-time permanent position within the University.

We asked Abbie how she felt to secure this position.

“I was so nervous when it came to the interview stage, but I was so pleased when I heard I had been offered the position. It meant that I have a full-time job in a role that I wanted to remain in. To anyone who is considering the programme I would say apply, as I have tried different training before and have never stuck at it, this programme is different, it gave me the support I needed."

“I am very comfortable in my position at the moment but in the future, I would like to move up in the organisation.”