Whilst celebrating and supporting National Apprenticeship Week 2019 (#NationalApprenticeshipWeek) last week, we spoke to Jo and Nicola from our HR team to discuss the Athona apprenticeship scheme.
“Since September 2016 we have supported 14 apprentices in achieving their apprenticeship qualification and are really proud of the significant contribution they have made to our business. For us, our apprentices bring a different dynamic to the team, they have fresh ideas and a willingness to learn, achieve and succeed. We get a great deal of satisfaction from providing a supportive and nurturing environment that helps them transition successfully from school and college life, into a busy and often demanding environment. With peer group support, a dedicated mentor and a recruitment specialist to work closely with, each and every apprentice benefits from our commitment to give them the training and study time they need, early chances for progression and a permanent role at the end of their apprenticeship. We are looking forward to more apprentices joining us in 2019.”
We also spoke to all of our current apprentices and asked them what they thought was the best thing about working at Athona.
Here’s a round up of everything they had to say.
Cameron works in our medical division as a resourcer for our experienced permanent team, here’s what he thinks about being an apprentice:
What is the best thing about being an apprentice?
It’s satisfying to know that by the end of my apprenticeship I will have gained the knowledge and built the foundations to have a great career in recruitment.
And what would you say is the best thing about completing your apprenticeship at Athona?
The friendly and supportive working environment.
Isabel is a sales consultant for our successful mental health division and after starting her apprenticeship elsewhere, moved to Athona to complete her apprenticeship with more support:
What is the best thing about being an apprentice?
The best thing about being an apprentice is learning all about how a business works, learning a new role and building on existing or creating new skills – all whilst getting paid to do so.
And what would you say is the best thing about completing your apprenticeship at Athona?
Being an apprentice at Athona is so good. I was at another business to start my apprenticeship where I had no support, training or structure. I then moved to Athona to carry on my apprenticeship, and the amount of support, training and structure I had was really comprehensive. It’s such a good place to start your career and continue on, I would recommend to anyone.
Bradley is an area co-ordinator for our busy nursing team and has been with Athona for the past seven months:
What is the best thing about being an apprentice?
Learning on the job. I think being an apprentice really helps expand your knowledge of the industry you’re in. Along with the regular catch ups, all of the additional training we are given really helps you with sales techniques and how to become better at your job. I believe finding an apprenticeship that works for you can really help you in your career, especially at the beginning.
And what would you say is the best thing about completing your apprenticeship at Athona?
Working at Athona as an apprentice is great, the little things really make the most difference. The dedication given to you is truly amazing. The people your working with don’t treat you any different to any of their other colleagues. Settling in was my biggest worry, but I felt like part of the furniture within two weeks of starting and that was mainly down to the people sitting beside me. Any problems I had or asking any questions was never an issue at all, everyone was keen to help and that’s why being an apprentice here is so good.
Gemma is a resourcer for our mental health divisions permanent team and other than enjoying our new offices, here’s what else Gemma thinks about being an apprentice:
What is the best thing about being an apprentice?
The best thing about being an apprentice is the constant support we receive. My team also really encourages me to work independently, but notices when I am struggling and need the extra help. Getting an apprenticeship is a great way to get into a business to learn from those around you so that you can get the most knowledge possible.
And what would you say is the best thing about completing your apprenticeship at Athona?
Athona is such a fun business to work for! Being in a brand new office is really exciting and the people that work here are all so nice. The lunch and learns for apprentices are really good because you get to meet the other people your own age in the business and can help each other with our job roles, as most of us are doing a similar job so can share tips easily!
Are you interested in becoming an apprentice with Athona? Head to our dedicated apprenticeships page to find out how or call Nicola on 01277 246889 for more information.
