Apprentice Stories
Charlotte - Apprentice Clerical Assistant, Now Legal Assistant
I first chose to do an apprenticeship with the Council as I was unsure of what I wanted my next steps to be when I left college. What first stood out to me was the variety of apprenticeships the Council was advertising. I joined as an Apprentice Clerical Assistant in the Revenues service where I studied for a Level 3 Business Administration Qualification one day a week and worked in the office the other four. During this role, I got to develop meaningful work experience and learn professional workplace skills while gaining a useful qualification.
I then applied for a full time role in the Legal and Democratic Service as a Business Support Officer. The Council facilitated transferring my apprenticeship so that I could complete it in my new position. While working with the Democratic Team I was involved in collating reports for various committee and Council agendas. I got to learn about the decision making processes within the Council, and it exposed me to the wide array of work that is undertaken at the Council. In this role, I also completed various administration work for the Legal Team and started to develop an interest in law. I then moved into my current role as a Trainee Legal Assistant where I assist with a broad range of matters but particularly Property. I currently have a day a week to study for a Level 3 Chartered Legal Executive Apprenticeship which I am really enjoying. My manager is supportive of my studies and keen to ensure that I develop a diverse range of experience while working to support this apprenticeship. Before my apprenticeship with the Council, I really did not know what I wanted to do in the future, but now I’ve found a career path I’m passionate about pursuing.
I’d highly recommend an apprenticeship as it allows you to build valuable experience that employers look for, and there is such a diverse range of opportunities available for progression. In my experience, I’ve felt that Test Valley Borough Council stands out in that they really value professional development and are keen to support it.