I joined Devon County Council in 2007 on a Business Administration Apprenticeship. The apprenticeship was a brilliant way to gain a broad range of experience and knowledge about different career paths and during my second year I obtained a permanent role within the HR Administration Team and completed my NVQs.
The support for my personal and professional development has been excellent; with the Council encouraging and funding further study, including a certificate in Personnel Practice and progressing up to Membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development.
It’s been a great way to learn and develop whilst earning a living. I’ve since gone on to achieve a Masters Degree in HR Management and secured an HR Adviser role 5 years ago. I’m now on the programme to commence a Leadership and Management Apprenticeship (the equivalent of a foundation degree) in April 2019.
I’ve been working for Devon County Council for over 10 years and every year I’ve either had the opportunity to study alongside my role or I’ve secured a promotion.
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of the Council and would highly recommend an apprenticeship to anyone that is struggling to know where to take their career. On top of that I’ve had the ability to work flexibly, giving me an excellent work-life balance, which has enabled me to continue doing the things I love outside of the workplace.
I feel very lucky that I ‘stumbled’ across a role I love!