Imogen Taylor
Print Studio Business Apprentice
Print Studio
Type of Apprenticeship: Level 3 Business Administration
Start date: September 2019
End date: February 2021
- Did you go straight into your Apprenticeship from school?
I went to Larkmead School in Abingdon. After I took my GCSE’s I went on to do my A levels in Business Studies and Economics. Once I completed these, I started my apprenticeship here in the Print Studio.
- Why did you choose to do an Apprenticeship?
There were many reasons why I choose an Apprenticeship. For me, I liked the idea of learning on the job and gaining experience within the workplace, and I knew this would be the best way for me to learn and develop my skills. Also, with doing an Apprenticeship you have the advantage of being able to earn while you learn.
- How did you find out about your Apprenticeship?
We had many career fairs at school providing us with information on what options we had after sixth form. This is where I became aware of Apprenticeships, at this point I knew this is what I wanted to do so then I looked on the gov.uk website and found the apprenticeship I am doing now.
- What have you gained from your Apprenticeship – skills, experience etc.?
Doing an Apprenticeship has helped me gain a lot of experience and confidence within the workplace. I have been able to learn a lot of new administrative skills that have helped me work to the best of my ability and help my team in the best way I can. I have also had the opportunity to meet and work with some amazing people, from a range of different backgrounds all with different expertise and knowledge.
- What has been your proudest moment so far from doing your Apprenticeship?
I am an Apprentice Ambassador for both the University and OxLep which means I am part of a team that attends Schools, Colleges and other organisations to promote and provide information about apprenticeships to students and anybody else that may be interested. As a part of this I have attended many Schools and Colleges to talk about my Apprenticeship story and give them information about the scheme. Before I started my Apprenticeship I would have had no confidence to stand up and talk to an audience. This is also very rewarding as it feels like you are making a difference and helping young people with the first steps of their careers.
- What do you plan to do next?
Once I have completed my Apprenticeship I hope to gain a full time role within the University and continue to push myself and learn new things.
- How will your/has your Apprenticeship helped you to achieve this?
By teaching me the necessary skills I would need for any job, along with the experience I have gained.
- What advice would you give a young person who might be thinking about an Apprenticeship?
I would say the best place to start is on the gov.uk website. This way you can search for Apprenticeships that suit the qualities and interests you have. Never be afraid to apply to as many Apprenticeships as you can and always research the company you have applied to, this will help you when it comes down to the interviewing process, as well as the initial application. I believe if you choose an Apprenticeship it will be a decision you never regret, the skills and experience you gain are invaluable and will definitely benefit you in the workplace both short and long term.
- What advice would you give an employer who is considering employing an Apprentice?
Hiring an Apprentice can offer the employer a chance to bring in new and innovative ideas. Apprentices are always willing to learn and develop their skills in order to grow and better themselves within the workplace. They can be a great asset to a team.
