Hull City Council is shining a spotlight on one of their brilliant apprentices and showcasing some great opportunities to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week.
National Apprenticeship Week is a week-long government-led event which highlights the exceptional work being done by employers and apprentices across the country.
Georgie Roberts started her apprenticeship with the council in September, becoming a Support Officer for the Employment Hub based at Hull Central Library.
Georgie said: “When I had finished school at the age of 16, I was stuck between going to college or finding an apprenticeship. I heard of this apprenticeship through my nana who works for the council, just after leaving school in September. And I knew it would be an amazing experience.
“I have family members have worked at the council and I’ve heard only good things about it. Knowing my family members have had great outcomes, I knew it would be a great way to gain experience and new skills to progress in the future.
“My role is customer-facing and I am the first point of contact with clients and businesses in the Employment Hub. I offer support to the employment advisors which includes monitoring all referrals, helping with CVs, assisting with setting up meet the employer events and any other admin tasks needed. My favourite parts of my job include setting up and participating in events, managing social media and greeting all customers.
“Before coming to the Employment Hub, I had no experience of working in an office so this job has given me the relevant experience to work in an office environment. Through this experience, I have also gained many new skills such as professionalism when speaking to businesses and customers over the phone, face-to-face and through email communication. It has also shown me the reality of working life and how I’ve been able to adapt easily and happily.
“My short-term goal is to progress within the team. My long-term goal is to excel in the council and progress in the skills that I will continue to learn every day.
“I would recommend working within the council as an apprentice as it is a great way to achieve a qualification and gain work experience and new skills. By being an apprentice, you also have one college day. This gives you knowledge and a qualification which is a great starting point. It’s also a great way to meet new people within your team and other teams in the council, which can then present new work opportunities.
“Overall, I am having the best time in my apprenticeship and couldn’t be happier with the role I am doing now. The people I work with in my team couldn’t be more supportive as well.”
Gill Brownlee, Employment Hub Manager, is Georgie’s line manager. She said: “Georgie has been a star! She has been an excellent addition to our team and her support has been invaluable. I would encourage any employer to consider the value that an apprentice can offer their business.”
Councillor Daren Hale, portfolio holder for Economic Investment and Regeneration said: “Apprenticeships offer a young person an important path into learning new skills and gaining job experience.
“Georgie is a shining example of how beneficial apprenticeships are to both employers and young people seeking a new opportunity.”
Find out more about apprenticeships by visiting the Hull Training and Adult Education website.
