People News

National Apprenticeship Week

We asked our HR team to sum up National Apprenticeship Week at Wilson James in three words, and People Development Rosa Osman did not disappoint! Read on to hear her take on #NAW2019…

FUN – we had a week of celebrating our learners: what they have achieved, the level of engagement they have shown, and their commitment to their personal development. We hosted a number of “apprentice lunches”’across the business, where our Board and Senior Managers were able to meet the learners and discuss their apprenticeship journey so far. It was great opportunity for our learners to interact with key individuals from across the business. We also had a live Q& A with Samantha Rope, HR Director finding out about her views on apprenticeships and the impact they have on our business and society.

INSPIRING – we heard how Apprenticeship programmes are making a significant difference to not only our employees’ careers, but to their lives. As we know, apprenticeships are far more than just a qualification. At one of our lunches, five learners delivered a short speech on what they have gained from their programme so far. These learners spoke out in front of an audience of 50 Managers and Senior Managers, with confidence and ambition. We also attended the Heathrow Academy apprenticeship event where we heard inspirational stories from both learners and Heathrow employers on how apprenticeships have transformed lives.

REWARDING – from a learning and development perspective, National Apprenticeship Week was both fulfilling and rewarding. Hearing inspiring stories, seeing our learners who have grown in confidence, and observing how our bespoke programmes are making a difference.

We launched our first apprenticeship programme, Level 50, in May 2018. Since then we have significantly expanded our offer to include apprenticeships in: leadership and management up to Masters level, IT, HR, Customer Service, Security First Line Management. Our offer is ever-growing and it’s exciting to be at the forefront of enhancing careers through apprenticeships.

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