Today marks the start of National Apprenticeship Week, which takes place from Monday 10 February to Sunday 16 February, and we are using the opportunity to shine a spotlight on some of our current apprentices.
Meet Emily, who is currently undertaking a level seven accountancy apprenticeship and has previously completed two other apprenticeships with LSCft.
My name is Emily Jenkinson, I’m 25 years old and started my journey with the Trust in 2018. Right now, I’m working towards my Chartered Institution of Management Accountants (CIMA) qualification, and I’m currently on my third apprenticeship with the Trust.
My apprenticeship pathway
- Level two and three accountancy apprenticeship (2018 to 2020)
- Level four accountancy apprenticeship (2020 to 2024)
- Level seven accountancy apprenticeship (current)
Before starting my first apprenticeship in 2018, I was in college completing my BTEC and A-Level qualifications. I knew that university wasn’t the right path for me, so I started looking into apprenticeships and quickly saw the benefits.
Why I chose an apprenticeship
I chose the apprenticeship route because it gave me the chance to gain real work experience while studying for my qualifications. From the start, I could see how valuable it was to be learning on the job and applying my skills in a real workplace.
Apprenticeships have helped me grow so much, not just in terms of qualifications but also in confidence, knowledge, and professional skills. I’ve met so many different people, built great relationships, and gained experience that I wouldn’t have had if I’d taken a different route.
How my apprenticeships have helped me
The apprenticeship scheme has been a huge benefit to me. It’s allowed me to:
- Earn qualifications while gaining hands-on experience
- Develop my skills and confidence in a professional setting
- Progress into new roles and move up bands within the Trust
- Build a strong network of colleagues and mentors
I’ve had so much support throughout all three of my apprenticeships, from my line managers, work colleagues, and the Apprenticeship Team. They’ve helped me with exams, studying, and my off-the-job training and portfolio. I’ve been given opportunities to shadow meetings, learn new tasks, and take on different responsibilities, all of which have helped me grow. The Trust has always encouraged me to keep progressing through apprenticeships, and I’ve felt supported every step of the way.
My advice for anyone considering an apprenticeship
If you’re thinking about doing an apprenticeship, I’d say just go for it! There are so many options available, and I genuinely can’t think of a reason not to consider one.
For those already doing an apprenticeship, my biggest piece of advice is to stay on top of everything—studying, portfolio work, and your 20% off-the-job training. It can feel like a lot, but keeping up with it from the start makes everything so much easier in the long run.
Why I chose to do more than one apprenticeship
Doing multiple apprenticeships has allowed me to keep expanding my knowledge and skills, which has helped me progress into new roles. I’ve been able to grow within the Trust and move up bands, all while continuing to learn and develop professionally.
Apprenticeships have been the best decision for my career, and I’d recommend them to anyone!
If you are interested in applying for an apprenticeship, take a look at our current opportunities.
For more information, you can also email our Apprenticeships Team.
