BLOG: A Day in the Life of an Apprentice

Ever wondered what it is like do an apprenticeship? Have you ever thought what a typical day would look like as an apprentice?

Well, we have the answers. We spoke with Andrea Jodrell, our Support Office Manager, to ask her the burning questions many of you have about apprenticeships.  

What apprenticeship have you undertaken/are currently undertaking? 
I am currently coming to the end of my IWFM (Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management) Level 4 

What did you do before you started your apprenticeship? 
I currently hold the position of Building Manager at the Support Office for Pets. In this role, I am responsible for overseeing various aspects related to the management and maintenance of the office facilities. My duties included ensuring the efficient functioning of the building, addressing maintenance issues, and contributing to the overall well-being of the working environment. Prior to starting the IWFM Level 4 apprenticeship, I pursued and completed my NEBOSH (National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health) qualification. This certification, also funded by Pets, provided me with a strong foundation in health and safety management. The combination of my experience as a Building Manager and the completion of the NEBOSH qualification laid the groundwork for my decision to further my skills through the IWFM Level 4 apprenticeship, aligning with my career goals in Facilities Management. 

What made you decide to do this apprenticeship? 
The decision to pursue this apprenticeship stemmed from my aspiration to transition from a Building Manager to a Facilities Manager role. 

What does a typical day look like for an apprentice? 
A typical day for me as an apprentice involves dedicating approximately 20% of my working week to my apprenticeship responsibilities. This usually includes participating in scheduled sessions with my tutor, during which we discuss upcoming topics, review progress, and address any queries or challenges. These sessions serve as valuable opportunities to receive guidance and clarification on the content covered in the apprenticeship program. The remainder of my time is often dedicated to actively engaging with projects and assignments that contribute to my overall learning and development. These tasks are designed to be relevant to the apprenticeship's learning objectives and are crucial components for my end-point assessment. I focus on completing assignments, ensuring they meet the required standards and align with the practical skills and knowledge expected in my field. 

What skills have you developed since starting/finishing your apprenticeship? 
Since embarking on my apprenticeship, I have gained a diverse set of skills that have proven invaluable in my current role as well as in potential future positions within Facility Management (FM). Behaviour management has been a useful topic, allowing me to navigate and address various workplace dynamics effectively. Stakeholder management skills have been utilised daily, facilitating smooth communication and collaboration with different parties involved in FM processes. The knowledge gained in legislation during my apprenticeship ensures a thorough understanding of legal frameworks, an essential aspect in maintaining compliance within the facility management landscape. Furthermore, my apprenticeship delved into budgeting, providing me with the capability to manage financial aspects efficiently. 

If you want to enhance and further your career opportunities like Andrea and explore what options are available to you, visit our website for further information. https://www.vets4petscareers.com/apprenticeships/