Read Laura’s story – she’s doing a Level 3 LEAP apprenticeship with Youth Friendly Employer Travis Perkins and is working as a showroom apprentice! Here’s here advice…
Meet, Laura Jordan, Showroom Apprentice at Benchmarx (part of the Travis Perkins group), who has been with the business for nearly a year and in that time started a Level 3 Fitted Furniture apprenticeship.
Why did you want to do a LEAP apprenticeship?
“I joined EY Foundation for an opportunity to learn about the world of design and apprenticeships while collaborating with Benchmarx. During the programme with EY, we took work experience in Benchmarx branches and saw kitchen designers work in real life. These few days in training made me realise how great of an opportunity it would be to join LEAP apprenticeships and start off a career in the working world straight out of college.”
What support have you received while on your apprenticeship?
“I have regular checkups and webinars with my coach, who keeps me on track with my tasks. Everything is clearly addressed and I’m supported with every query I have. Coaches are like your friends looking out for you!”
How has the programme made you more effective in your role, setting you up for success?
“The depth and expansion of skills you get to learn throughout the programme are all you need to build a solid foundation in experience and confidence that is essential for any job role and allows me to take the steps that are looked favourably upon in my career. I have not been experienced in customer service roles and working with a team in the office prior to joining the apprenticeship. Throughout the months, I have developed strong communication skills which are vital in my job role and learning them so early into my career gave me a strong head start into the working world compared to many people in my age group.”
What’s your favourite and proudest moment about being on a LEAP apprenticeship programme?
“There are various types of tasks in my programme that help me learn about the many different aspects of the business. This expands my abilities and knowledge in areas I never knew existed or would be useful, which boosts my confidence each time.
My proudest moment was selling one of my largest kitchens worth over £15,000 because of my dedication and customer service was a big moment for me. I was told by my customer that I was convincing and patient with her compared with other competitors she had seen, which is when I realised how much I improved with my selling, confidence and customer service skills.”
What advice would you give to someone considering enrolling in a LEAP apprenticeship?
“You will never gain this much vital experience and skills anywhere other than actually working in a sector you want. The added bonus of a diploma and learning while on the job is undeniably an opportunity not worth missing out on.”
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