Which stage are you at in your education?
I'm an S6 pupil at Cults Academy.
Why did you choose the Business Skills Foundation Apprenticeship?
As someone who has a keen interest in business, I chose a Foundation Apprenticeship for several reasons. Firstly, this apprenticeship provides a practical and hands-on approach to learning, allowing me to gain real world experience in various aspects of business.
The Foundation Apprenticeship in Business Skills covers essential business functions such as finance, marketing, management, and communication. This should provide me with the knowledge to tackle diverse challenges in business.
I also believe that this apprenticeship will allow me to network, which is something I really value. Connecting with professionals and building these relationships early on is invaluable for opening future doors.
You attend North East Scotland College (NESCol) for part of your Foundation Apprenticeship too. What does the college element involve?
The Business Skills Foundation Apprenticeship includes units in Understanding Business (basic business functions), Management of People & Finance, Web Apps such as Word Processing & Spreadsheets and finally Contemporary Business Issues.
What are you most looking forward to about the placement element of your apprenticeship?
The prospect of being directly involved in day-to-day business operations and projects is incredibly exciting. It's an opportunity to see how the concepts and theories I've studied in the classroom translate into practical, real-world applications.
Networking is another aspect I'm enthusiastic about. Building relationships with professionals in the industry can open doors to mentorship, advice and potentially future business opportunities. I see the placement as a chance not only to contribute to the organisation but also to establish connections that may prove valuable throughout my career.
What do you hope to get out of it?
I aspire to develop a deeper understanding of how different business functions interconnect and contribute to overall organisational success. This broad insight will help to shape my perspective and approach to future business challenges.
Ultimately, my goal is to emerge from the work placement with a well-rounded skill set, a network of valuable professional connections and the confidence to contribute effectively to any personal business setting.
Any other thoughts?
In addition to the specific skills and knowledge I hope to gain, I'm also excited about the potential for personal growth. The work placement represents a chance to challenge myself, step out of my comfort zone and develop a resilience that comes from tackling real-world challenges.
Could you give a Foundation Apprentice the chance to experience your industry and workplace? DYW North East can connect you with local learning providers, who will arrange a placement to suit your organisation's sector and requirements. Contact us to find out more. Employers can also learn about Foundation Apprenticeships here.
Young people and their parents/carers can find out more about the different types of Foundation Apprenticeship - and how to choose a Foundation Apprenticeship as a school subject - here.
