Q & A with Wesley – Customer Services Apprentice
What’s it like to work at TVBC?
TVBC offers a friendly working environment to its employees, and while the Council has its common services it provides, the customers bring many different inquiries, which brings a lot of variety to the job.
Why did you choose an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship allowed me to earn a qualification while also giving me proper experience in a working environment, both of which are things that will have continuous use for future job prospects, and since you are also working, you also get paid an income.
What types of things do you do at work?
TVBC offers many services to the public, which we often book for the customers, but we also handle customer documentation and a variety of other queries.
What are you enjoying at work?
The work I do at TVBC isn’t bad at all, and sometimes we do get our fair share of interesting queries and moments that spice up the job just that little bit in comparison to any other desk work.
What’s the best bit about it?
The best bit about working at TVBC for me is that I am now getting my first proper experience in the workplace, but I’m also able to enjoy myself and make new friends among the other apprentices and employees along the way.
How do TVBC help you with your qualification?
TVBC helps me with my qualification by providing me with the necessary time and facilities to complete my college work, and the work I do helps provide me with experience and evidence I can use to support this.
What support do you get from your manager or other people at work?
My managers provide assistance with the work itself, among other aspects, but all the staff are willing to help you with any queries you have and will assist where they can.
How does the Hampshire Apprentice Partnership add to the experience?
The HAP programme adds to my experience as an apprentice, as the majority of the events help with your knowledge and skills of your work, or at least support what you already know; but it also generally provides a good opportunity to interact with the other apprentices at TVBC, as we are all usually busy in our separate departments.
What new skills and knowledge have you gained so far?
By taking this apprenticeship in Customer Service at TVBC, I’ve been able to find out about the variety of services the Council provides, but the job has also allowed me to improve my communication skills and a few other aspects of dealing with people.