How do Apprenticeships benefit managers at Devon County Council?
We
asked managers who have taken on apprentices for many years and managers who
have just recruited their first apprentice how they found the recruitment
process and how it has benefited their teams.
Debra Cooke, CSC (Customer Service Centre) Team Manager:
‘The
Customer Service Centre (CSC) has recruited many apprentices over the years,
and the majority of these have progressed to gain permanent employment within
DCC –including a large number who have stayed working at the CSC. The
Apprenticeship recruitment process has been straightforward and the support and
quality of the apprenticeship training has been excellent, providing the
apprentices with knowledge and skills to help them become experienced, valued
Customer Service Advisors.’
Michelle
Fairchild, Leadership Support Manager:
‘I started my career with Devon County
Council on a YTS (Youth Training Scheme) which is similar to an apprenticeship,
therefore I have always been a huge supporter of the Devon County Council Apprenticeship
Programme. Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to get varied work
experience, learn new skills and gain a qualification at the same time.
My
experience as a manager has always been very positive, Apprentices have proven
vital in my team, they provide much needed support to colleagues and bring with
them fresh ideas and skills. In return they receive a lot of support and
benefit from the varied knowledge and experience that my team and I can offer.
I have had the privilege of managing several apprentices over the years and I
really enjoy seeing how they develop and grow in confidence, both in themselves
and their abilities. I feel very proud that the majority are successful
when applying for promotional permanent roles within DCC after completing their
Apprenticeship.’
Kevin Dentith, Chief Engineer (Bridges &
Structures):
‘My
experience of apprentices has been 100% positive – as well as developing the
next generation of Engineers and Technicians they add youth and vitality to the
group. From the apprentice’s perspective we offer an alternative career pathway
to degree entry…. but should someone choose to progress onto a degree course at
a later stage we will try and support them by offering employment during their
vacation periods.’
Megan
Cross, Head of Conveyancing:
‘Having an apprentice in our team has been hugely
beneficial as our apprentice has been very quick to learn the ropes and make a
real contribution to the work we do.
I would highly recommend appointing an apprentice’
Phil Barrett, Team Leader
(Safer Recruitment Service):
‘Recruiting an apprentice
has been a very positive experience. Chloe has been with us for 3 months and is
a valuable member of the Safer Recruitment team in HR Employee Services.
Chloe expressed an interest
in HR work at the apprentice event and was subsequently appointed. The
recruitment process went smoothly, thanks to support from the Apprenticeships
and Recruitment Teams. She has proved to be a very enthusiastic worker, keen to
learn and is picking up a great deal of knowledge and skills, in all aspects of
recruitment, vetting checks and administrative skills.
Having an apprentice in the
team has significantly lowered the average age of our team! It’s great to have
the views of a younger person and gives the rest of the team a fresh work
perspective. Being able to pass on our skills and knowledge to an apprentice is
very rewarding.
Chloe is already proving to
be a real asset to DCC and has the potential to achieve a great deal with the
Authority.'
Amy Kyme
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