What is your name and current job title?
Katie Erskine, Recruitment Coordinator.
Which apprenticeship are you completing and at what level?
Level 3 Customer Services Apprenticeship.
How has the apprenticeship helped you grow personally and professionally?
Taking on an apprenticeship has helped me grow both personally and professionally in ways I never expected. I originally applied because I wanted a complete career change – but I didn’t yet have the confidence or experience to go for roles in Recruitment or HR. Looking back, the apprenticeship was exactly the launchpad I needed.
One of the best parts was completing placements across the People & Culture directorate, including Payroll, Digital Marketing & Advertising, Temporary Staffing, Social Work Recruitment, and Apprenticeships. Each placement gave me real hands‑on experience – from supporting colleagues day to day to handling enquiries and keeping everything running smoothly. Thanks to everything I learned, I secured a permanent role as a Recruitment Coordinator just six months after starting!
The apprenticeship also boosted my understanding of the council, customer experience, and key areas like employment legislation and safeguarding. I’ve also had amazing opportunities to attend networking events, conferences, and training on topics like resilience, managing change, and confident conversations – all of which have really shaped how I work today.
Overall, it’s been an incredible experience. I’ve discovered what I’m passionate about, built confidence I didn’t know I had, and found a clear direction for my career. I’m so proud of how far I’ve come – and excited for what’s next!
What skills have you developed so far?
- Communication and Interpersonal Skills
- Customer Service Skills
- IT & System Skills
- Attention to Detail
- Understanding of Recruitment Processes
- Knowledge of HR Policy & Employment legislation
- Confidence and Professionalism
What support do you receive from your employer and training provider?
I’ve been really lucky to have amazing support from both my employer and my training provider throughout my apprenticeship. My training provider offers regular sessions and 1:1 meetings that keep me on track, and I’m given dedicated time each week to focus on my apprenticeship work—really helping me balance learning with day‑to‑day responsibilities.
My managers have been so supportive, always happy to help with apprenticeship‑related questions or projects. I also have a brilliant workplace mentor who’s been there every step of the way, offering advice, encouragement, and even interview support to help me progress. Plus, monthly one‑to‑ones with my manager make sure I always have the guidance I need.
Would you recommend an apprenticeship to others? Why?
Absolutely! An apprenticeship is such a fantastic way to get real hands‑on experience while studying and working towards recognised qualifications. You literally earn while you learn, which makes it an accessible and practical route into a new career.
DCC has been brilliant in offering support, development opportunities, and clear pathways to progress when you’re ready for the next step. And the best part? You can gain all of this valuable experience without taking on any debt.