Business Administration, Level 2
What made you choose this apprenticeship?
I wanted to gain more experience. I wanted more learning skills, flexibility in a full time job. Before, I was at college in an internship and then I went on the Travel Card Team within Business Support Services (BSS), and I was encouraged to go for the apprenticeship in the same team.
What challenges have you faced during your apprenticeship?
Three weeks into March 2020, I had to work from home because of Covid. It was tricky because of the distractions. There was the dog barking, noisy neighbours and we had to go through lock down three times. At that time, I didn't know how to filter this out. There were also connection issues. The broadband in the street was terrible. I just got back to work, by not rushing and just doing it.
Another challenge, was that I had just had an operation for a cochlear implant as I'm partially deaf. I got used to it pretty quickly. I just took my time. I was so used to lip reading, when working over teams, I had to ask people to talk slowly. With the implant, I could hear better using online team meetings.
Stu Neville (Job Coach): I have been supporting Daijon since 2020 at the start of his course. It is important to realise that Daijon was profoundly deaf for the first 16 years of his life prior to his implants. He has had speech therapy all his life but predominantly he had been using British Sign Language. He has really overcome his deafness with the help of his implants and speech therapy. It helps him to hear and he can attend workshops without the need for an interpreter. I'm extremely proud of him and how far he has come in 3 years.
What life skills is your apprenticeship teaching you?
I learnt to be more confident and to be brave in a room full of people. I'm focussed on my work. I learnt about time management and going into the office three times a week. I keep the balance to avoid getting over tired.
What are your plans once you have completed?
I have completed the apprenticeship and I have a full time job working for the Adult Social Care/SEN team within Business Support Services.
Would you recommend an apprenticeship?
I would recommend an apprenticeship. It offers good training and you get a wage. It is low but this can lead to a full time position with an increase in wages.
