Apprentice of the Month – January 2023
Tell us a bit about yourself.
Since being a young child, I have been interested in becoming a teacher. I have always enjoyed sports, with a huge interest in netball. During my time at school, I had a lot of mental health issues, and the teacher that helped me through it all inspired me to be just like her! I wanted to help children get through hard times. I was in my first year at college; however, due to my mental health, I could not continue. Despite this, I was still determined to work in a school, and from there, I did a lot of research on how to get into teaching. During this process, I found this apprenticeship, I had many interviews at the school, and after the 3rd interview, they agreed I was perfect for the role. After I complete my level 2, I want to move on to level 4. After this, I would either like to find a permanent placement or go to uni and get a degree in teaching.
Why did you choose to be an inspire+ apprentice?
I chose inspire+ as Ange was extremely supportive from the start and helped me gain confidence. Inspire+ seemed like a great way to start a career, and it exceeded my expectations! So now I’m choosing this apprenticeship as a different approach to getting into uni rather than going to a college full time.
What did you learn during your apprenticeship?
I learnt many skills during my time with Dave. Dave taught me multiple ways I can teach different activities. We’ve also learnt about how to deal with SEND needs are extremely important but also very challenging. Dave had sorted us strategies to help us within our schools.
Would you like to share a good memory from your apprenticeship?
One great memory is when I was off working for illness, and the children were so worried I wasn’t coming back. When I returned on Monday morning, I went out of my office to do their registers, and their faces lit up, and they screamed. I will forever cherish this memory, as I didn’t know I made such a huge impact on their lives. Their telling me they don’t think they could have done it without me filled my heart with joy and love.
What did you enjoy about your apprenticeship?
I’m enjoying getting to know more about myself. This apprenticeship has taught me that I am way stronger than I ever believed. I enjoy that the children will come to me and talk about their mental health, their school days, and what they are getting up to after school. I also look forward to seeing all the children after a half term; the excitement and screams of joy when they see me remind me why I’m doing this apprenticeship. I also enjoy seeing a child trying so hard to achieve a goal they never thought they could!
Do you recommend other people to become an inspire+ apprentice? Explain why.
inspire+ is a fantastic way to for fill your dream. inspire+ has the most friendly team; they work super hard to help you achieve your own goals whilst achieving theirs. inspire+ is a charity that helps people like me; they are truly incredible. I wouldn’t recommend a charity more than I do inspire+. They have helped me achieve my one goal and dream, and there’s no doubt in my mind they can’t help you.
To find out more about our apprenticeships, visit www.inspireplus.org.uk/apprenticeships