Meet the Apprentices
Charlotte Mullen - Transport Planning Technician
When I left college, I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to
do for a job, but I did know I didn’t want to get myself into debt for the sake
of a few more years to make up my mind. The idea of an apprenticeship appealed
to me as it meant I didn’t have to give up education just yet, but I could
still gain valuable experience.
I was originally going to do a geography related course at
university, so planning seemed to be a good choice - and as I stay in halls of
residence for my college course, I’m almost getting my university experience
anyway. I started my Planning Technician Apprenticeship at DCC, a two year
course, in September 2017. I work in the traffic data team, organising and
analysing manual counts and speed surveys to monitor traffic across Devon. Although
we mostly use manual methods of data collection, we are starting to look at
using Bluetooth devices and other new ways of collecting data.
As well as my normal work with traffic data, I have had the
opportunity to work with members of the transport planning team to look at
building transport models, which has helped me in my studies at college. I have
also spent time with other apprentices at events such as the apprenticeship
expo at Exeter College and doing presentations for young people who are thinking
of going into an apprenticeship.
Every term, I go to Leeds College of Building for two weeks
to study for my Transport Planning Level 3 BTEC. I attend lessons and complete
assignments while I am at college, so I don’t have to worry about revision or
assignments when I get back. As well as my assignments, I send evidence of the
work I am doing at DCC to the skills assessors at college, which ensures I am
getting the experience I need to complete the course successfully.
I know the experience that I have gained in my
apprenticeship will be useful in the future, and I would recommend an
apprenticeship to everyone, especially anyone who isn’t sure whether university
is right for them but still wants to keep learning.
Charley Mullen
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