Work-based learning leads to promotion

(This case study was used extensively in the press and last appeared in the Spring 08 edition

of the LSC’s THE MAGAZINE)

Claire, now aged 18, began working as an administration assistant at the Luton Connexions office in 2005. The position included the opportunity to work towards an NVQ Level 2 in Administration and Business through a work-based Apprenticeship with Eclipse Training Ltd.

Claire said: “I didn't originally intend to find a job that offered training as well, I just fell into it. But now, I'm really pleased I have had the chance to do it as it has really helped me in my job. I've been able to achieve extra qualifications while still earning money and gaining work experience.”

Claire's assessor, Donna Barry from Eclipse Training Ltd, says: “I remember meeting Claire to discuss the Administration Apprenticeship training she was going to be doing alongside her job about a week or so before she started working at Connexions. It's always a bit daunting starting a new job and it's even more of an unknown when it's your very first job.”

The training was carried out at Claire's office with Donna visiting Claire approximately once a month. Donna would spend an afternoon with Claire assessing her at work; setting her assignments and helping her compile her portfolio.

Earning extra qualifications has helped Claire take a second step up the career ladder. After starting her Advanced Apprenticeship she successfully applied for an administrative position advertised in the Connexions’ Quality and Performance department which entailed more responsibilities.  

Claire is now an integral part of the team providing administrative support to the senior members of staff in the department including using specialist software to produce reports, collating and inputting data for quality surveys and taking minutes.  Claire

believes that being able to work and train at the same time has enabled her to learn and achieve new things every day.

Jo Baty, Partnership Director for the Learning and Skills Council Bedfordshire and Luton said:  “As Claire has shown, an Apprenticeship isn’t just about achieving a qualification but also about learning practical skills which can be applied in the workplace and developing personal attributes like confidence.”