The Challenge
To develop HR skills on-the-job
Having previously achieved a law degree, John was looking to branch out and pursue a career in HR, where he could leverage his degree in an area that interested him.
He had already secured a position in the NHS as a HR administrator and, having been out of education for a while, was looking for a way to develop his skills and fast-track his career progression while learning on-the-job.
Working for a levy paying organisation, John was also eligible for a fully-funded apprenticeship place.
“The apprenticeship programme has been inspiring. It has opened my mind to other opportunities and has been a real gamechanger. I am very glad I did it!”
The Solution
A Level 5 HR apprenticeship programme
Our HR apprenticeship scheme was an ideal solution, enabling John to become CIPD qualified while working full time.
John was able to access all the resources he needed via our user friendly Virtual Learning Environment, and found the guidance of his supportive, accessible adviser, Evelyn Thurley, and our “exceptional” webinar tutors invaluable.
Dedicating just one day a week to 20% off-the-job studying time, John was able to continue to progress at work and build up relevant work experience, while also studying autonomously – which suited his learning style and preferences.
The Results
Enhanced skills, became CIPD qualified, and progressed in HR career
John now manages the recruitment of four specialties as the Divisional Recruitment and Retention Lead for Specialist Services at University Hospital Southampton.
He has nothing but positive things to say about his apprenticeship, which enabled him to have a better understanding of people practice, business acumen and evidence based practice.
He’s received positive feedback from colleagues and management, and is challenging his new skills into his passion for community engagement and empowerment by freelancing as a community engagement officer.
“Just do it!” is his top tip to anyone thinking about starting a HR or L&D apprenticeship programme.
Achieved Level 5 CIPD qualification
Fully-funded, on-the-job training
Positive feedback from colleagues and management
Apprentice of the year award winner
Receiving his award, John said: “Completing my apprenticeship was inspiring and I was ecstatic when I found out I had won the award.
I couldn’t have done it without the immeasurable support and guidance from my adviser Evelyn Thurley, my line manager Natasha Watts, our education lead Rachel Palmer and my colleagues at University Hospital Southampton. Overall, my experience has been amazing.
“Since commencing my apprenticeship I have become a more reflective practitioner, developed a thirst for knowledge and championing better work and working lives.
I now add weight to my professional judgements by supporting my opinions with compelling evidence from diverse sources, making a positive difference on every level by inspiring others and seeing beyond rules to do what is right, fair and just.
This programme has made me realise how psychologically meaningful it is to pursue the highest goals and the development of my character. It has opened my mind to other opportunities and has been a real gamechanger.”
