Emily Ingram, 17, is currently undertaking a Business Administration apprentice at Home Instead in Pewsey. Home Instead provide support to older people who wish to stay in their own home as they get older.

Can you tell us about your role and responsibilities whilst on your apprenticeship?

My job title is Recruitment Administrator I complete all of the admin for recruitment which includes; screening applicants, phone interviews, arranging in house interviews and assessments. When applicants are successful I carry out the clearances which include references and DBS checks. I then issue contracts and make ID badges. I am also involved in supporting the marketing team on occasion at careers fairs for example.

Did you always plan to undertake an apprenticeship? What advice would you give to others considering this route?

I had planned on becoming a vet but unfortunately I didn’t get the results I wanted for that course, so I decided to attend Sixth Form but at the same time I applied for this role as well. As I was successful in securing the apprenticeship I choose this route instead.

I would advise you do your research I saw other business administration roles but some were part time, some provide transport some do not, so you need to look around. Remember you can go to interviews just to find out more information as well and it is good experience – you don’t have to take the role. I thought I would be on day release and going back into an education environment but that isn’t the case, I am able to complete my workbooks online in the office and an assessor comes to visit me.

What are the positive highlights of your experience so far?

I find the work place flexible and relaxed, compared to previous work experience I have done. I am even able to bring my dog into the office which is nice! I am becoming financially independent, along side my evening job, so I can save money as well. I have more confidence in myself after having my 1-1 recently, it is nice to hear I am doing a good job.

Emily’s employer, Nell, shared her views as an employer recruiting an apprentice.

Why did you decide to recruit an apprentice and what are your experiences so far?

This is our first apprentice in the business, I had been gathering information from events I had attended and when we were ready we contacted Wiltshire College as a training provider. I think it is a cost-effective way to recruit and we are using this opportunity to cover maternity leave, it gives us flexibility.

The experience has been positive I was impressed by quality and amount of applications I received ranging from 16-years olds to 50-year olds. The 20% off the job training is less intrusive than I imagined. We have easily found work for Emily to do which is relevant to role and qualification.