No, I had been back in the workplace for 7 months, working as a chef - having retuned from an extended Maternity leave.

What made you apply for an apprenticeship?

I had worked as a chef since leaving school and had decided that it was time for a career change. I knew I wanted to stay in a “working” environment so I felt that an apprenticeship would be the best option for me.

When looking for apprenticeships I wanted to find an establishment in which I could learn as much as possible and experience as much as possible, Blenheim is an ever-growing business and I saw the potential for learning. I also knew I wanted to stay relatively local because of my children being of school age, so that was a big factor when looking for apprenticeships and I knew I wanted to try my hand at working in an office environment, Blenheim ticked both boxes.

Day to day admin for the HR team - replying to emails, booking events, updating files, requesting references, updating various trackers, inputting data, collating information, corresponding with managers, taking notes for meetings, sitting in on meetings. Recruitment - from the initial meeting through to interview. Payroll - collating all the data from various trackers to send to Payroll.

What do you like best about the job?

• I love that no two days are the same
• I like working to processes and seeing which one’s work and which ones do not
• I like being a port of call for people that may need help
• I enjoy learning new systems and knowing how they function
• Being apart of a brilliant team

How are you finding the apprenticeship and how is it helping you progress?

Overall, I really enjoy what the apprenticeship entails. Being able to link what is being taught in college to my every day work has been helpful. Knowing that the tutor as well as my colleagues are on hand to support my training is beneficial. I feel more confident in what I do day to day as my apprenticeship progresses and I am looking forward to everything else it will bring

What do you hope to gain and once your apprenticeship has finished?

I hope to continue my People Practise journey, potentially completing a Level 5 apprenticeship with Blenheim. Ultimately, I want to have the ability, knowledge, and confidence to become a full-time people practitioner.