Lisa Collard is the Business Manager at Broadway Events Limited. Lisa tells us her employer apprenticeship story and what it’s been like for her company to take on two level 4 apprentices.
What programme is your apprentice currently undertaking?
Molly is doing the Level 4 Sales Executive Apprenticeship and Millie is doing the Level 4 Marketing Executive Apprenticeship.
Can you tell us a little bit about your company?
We are a small company with 14 employees. We are based in Hampshire. We organise trade exhibitions and conferences within the care and education sectors. Our mission is to support our stakeholders in succeeding through the power of live events by connecting buyers and suppliers together to inspire, inform and improve in business.
What were your reasons for taking on an apprentice?
We wanted the opportunity to help develop the apprentices into the roles at a slower pace in line with their studies. This will give them a deeper understanding of Broadway Events and the roles they have been hired for.
Can you see progression in your apprentice’s workplace skills due to the programme?
Definitely. Molly started her Sales Executive apprenticeship in August, and she shares her knowledge with the sales team as she often learns new techniques that will be useful for the whole team. It has helped develop her confidence and grow within her role. Millie has not started her Marketing Executive apprenticeship yet. She has her induction in the next few weeks so we are looking forward to seeing her progress.
The apprenticeship landscape can be quite confusing, particularly for those employers perhaps considering taking on an apprentice for the first time. How easy did you find it to start an apprentice on programme with us?
It was very straight forward to apply and Lisa White, the Business Development Executive at Oxford Professional Education was a great help with answering questions and taking me through the process.
How did you find working with Oxford Professional Education as the training provider?
OXPE are flexible and always offer help and support where they can. I would definitely recommend them to other employers.
What advice would you give to an apprentice?
I think it is a great opportunity for you to grow your skills and learn at a slower pace. This will benefit you greatly in the role when you finish the course as you will have all the skills and knowledge needed to perform your job at a high level.
Oxford Professional Education is a main provider of apprenticeships. We help a range of organisations find suitable apprentices and provide training for the qualifications. If you are interested in taking on an apprentice, get in touch with our team to find out how we can help.