Case Studies & Testimonials

Shannon Johnson - Learner Testimony.

I began working as an Apprentice in February 2016.
I was anxious about starting an Apprenticeship. I was concerned that being Dyslexic would
affect my job and the coursework for my Apprenticeship. My manager Jo and tutor Julie

helped me every step of the way and were always there if I felt my work was below the standard,

or was unsure how to do some of the work that was set for me. Julie would explain in detail work

so that I would understand and Jo would encourage and support me to improve my skills daily

and complete the targets set.

Changes were made to support me in workplace by using overlays to make it easier for me to read and Julie helped me with my confidence when I choose the option of voice recording some of my answers, so that I didn’t need to do too many written assignments.

I was really overwhelmed to achieve my level 2 Apprenticeship in Business Administration in February 2017. My confidence levels had really increased and I was getting on well at work and had been given extra responsibilities. Julie and Jo Ross suggested I progress to Business Administration level 3 course, which although I was apprehensive. I am proud to say I also achieved in April 2018.

My level of knowledge, skills and confidence have improved immensely, particularly when communicating externally with our apprentice’s employers and funding partners. Also, my knowledge of systems and internal paperwork has improved significantly.

I have been encouraged to complete a Level 2 qualification in Business Improvement Techniques. This will help to support my understanding of improving processes, that I have put in place. I will continue to progress with the support of my manager Jo Ross and all colleagues at The Apprenticeship Centre.

I have enjoyed every minute of my Apprenticeship and The Apprenticeship Centre have been excellent in supporting and helping me to develop my career and my future aspirations.

"The most important thing I have learnt, is “never let anything hold you back”

Shannon Johnson - Learner Testimony.

helped me every step of the way and were always there if I felt my work was below the standard,

or was unsure how to do some of the work that was set for me. Julie would explain in detail work

so that I would understand and Jo would encourage and support me to improve my skills daily

Gareth Rafferty – Learner Testimony

I have been learning with The Apprenticeship Centre for many years.

I started with my Level 2 Team Leading Qualification and am now doing my

Level 4 Leadership and Management qualification and hopefully, beyond!

In my time, I’ve had three different tutors, each had their own special way of

helping me to learn and to succeed and each as helpful and encouraging as their predecessor.

When I started working at Connect, I had come out of a period of time of unemployment as a result of redundancy. I had to start back in work again, and build my confidence which I had lost when trying to find work. My confidence increased with the Level 2 qualification, and even further with Level 3 and 4! I’ve even been inspired to take on a second qualification to complete at the same time as my Level 4 – CIPD Level 5 in Learning & Development – and am hoping to complete a Level 7 CIPD Qualification, as well as continue my learning journey with the Apprenticeship Centre.

As a result of my work with the Apprenticeship Centre, I have taken a number of important career steps, from managing a team of Sales people, to working as a Performance and Quality Coach, managing our apprenticeship programme and to where I am now, as a Learning & Development Specialist – my focus is now on how to improve the learning journey of others!

I couldn’t have done this without the support of my employer, and the inspiration taken from the tutors and employees I’ve come into contact with at the Apprenticeship Centre. Thank you all so much!