Council's apprentices highlighted during National Apprenticeship Week
Published: 3 February 2020
This week is National Apprenticeship Week – and the City Council is playing its part by celebrating the success of our apprentices.
The council currently has 21 apprentices in a wide variety of roles, with three more expected shortly.
There are apprentices on 11 different courses, including Data Analyst Level 4, Senior Leader MBA Level 7, Horticulture Level 2 and many more.
During the week we will feature a number of our apprentices starting with Chris Garlick, from our Legal team and Sam Prangley, from Growth & Commercialisation.
Name: Chris Garlick, Legal Services, Solicitor Apprenticeship (level 7)
Why did you decide to do an apprenticeship?
Around 5 years ago I had completed my A-levels and was working in a shoe shop. I decided against university due to the costs and debt that I would incur. So I started looking into and applying for, apprenticeships in a variety of different sectors. My main focus was on the law as I thought this could be an interesting and challenging career path. An apprenticeship is the best of both worlds as I would be gaining practical experience at the same time as working towards a qualification.
I joined ECC as a paralegal apprentice for an initial two years. After completing that course I had the opportunity to move onto a degree apprenticeship, which should see me qualify as a solicitor within the next 3 years.
What's the most rewarding part of being an apprentice?
Working with a highly experienced Legal team who continually provide me with supervision and support.
Would you recommend an apprenticeship to others and why?
Yes, if there is one available for what they want to do. Learning whilst working certainly can be a tall order and isn’t for everyone as it involves a lot of hard work, often having to work weekends or evenings. I would say that an apprenticeship is a logical choice to make if you are set on a particular career as you gain practical experience that you would struggle to obtain if you followed the traditional learning route.
What's your best / most rewarding moment since your apprenticeship began?
At the moment it would have to be passing my exams and then being able to apply that knowledge on a day to day basis. However, I’m sure the best is yet to come!
Name: Sam Prangley, 21, Growth & Commercialisation, Level 4 Data Analysis
Why did you decide to do an apprenticeship?
I didn’t feel that university was the best way for me to continue my education. I am able to learn more practically from other professionals. Furthermore, I am able to earn money whilst learning rather than paying tuition fees.
What's the most rewarding part of being an apprentice?
Learn from people in the trade through experience. Using the work place to practice what I have learnt.
Would you recommend an apprenticeship to others and why?
Yes! It’s a great way to gain experience and qualifications. It a great opportunity to learn from others and use what you have learnt.
What's your best / most rewarding moment since your apprenticeship began?
For me it would be winning apprentice of the year at the ECC awards last year.