Ward Security has taken on an apprentice as part of the Government-approved scheme to enable young people to learn while they work.
And Louise Wright is already proving her worth to the Rochester-based business, engaging with clients and becoming a valuable member of the administration team.
A student at Mid Kent College, Louise decided to apply for an Apprenticeship in Business Administration.
Funded by the Learning and Skills Council, this will see her work towards a National Vocational Qualification Level 2 at the end of the year-long programme.
She is currently working full-time at Ward Security, learning valuable business skills and interacting with the existing human resources team.
Louise will be assessed in the workplace every ten weeks by her Reviewing Officer, as well as receiving appropriate off-job training.
And, although she is only a few weeks into her training, so far Louise has loved every minute. “I wanted to study for a NVQ through an Apprenticeship because of the on-the-job training, which meant I could study – and get paid at the same time,” she said.
“I had already decided I wanted to work in administration, and particularly within human resources. I love being able to interact with other members of staff, and enjoy the knowledge that I’m making a difference to the business.
“Although Ward Security is my first ever job, I’d be happy to stay on. It’s a really friendly environment and I feel that I’ve already been given more responsibility than most other people my age.”
Sam Pullen, Associate Director of Human Resources, said Louise has integrated into the department well. “She is motivated and keen to learn,” says Sam, “and her enthusiasm also invigorates other staff members.
“For Ward Security it means that, because her training is on the job, the practical skills she will gain are the ones that are right for our business.”
