Posted: 19/02/2024
In a resounding testament to the transformative power of apprenticeships, both apprentices and their employers are speaking out about the remarkable benefits of this career pathway after a successful National Apprenticeship Week 2024.
Sam, a Doncaster College apprentice, and Dobson & Hodge Ltd, his employer, are sharing their story to highlight the invaluable opportunities apprenticeships offer to both individuals and companies.
Sam’s journey began after at sixth form; a route that he believed was the most natural progression after finishing his GCSEs. Unfortunately, Sam quickly realised this type of learning wasn’t right for him, so he sought an alternative path. Despite initial hesitations fuelled by negative perceptions of apprenticeships, Sam took the leap, guided by a newfound sense of purpose. Sam, along with two of his friends took a tour of Doncaster College and spoke to the college’s expert careers advisors who gave him tailored advice for his future goals.
From here Sam took the leap into apprenticeships. “An apprenticeship was the right path for me,” reflects Sam, emphasizing how the combination of hands-on experience at Dobson & Hodge Ltd and structured learning at Doncaster College shaped his professional growth.
“At Dobson & Hodge Ltd, we have witnessed first-hand the remarkable potential of apprenticeships,” shares the employer. Sam’s swift integration into the team and his enthusiastic approach to learning have been instrumental in his success.
From learning intricate aspects of the insurance world to spearheading fundraising initiatives, Sam has proven himself to be an invaluable asset to Dobson & Hodge Ltd. His employer expresses pride in Sam’s achievements, underscoring the pivotal role apprenticeships play in developing skilled professionals and instilling strong work ethics.
Dobson & Hodge commented, “we feel overall that by taking on an apprentice, we are able to motivate and encourage good business skills and assist in the development and confidence building of a colleague who is just starting out in the working world. By encouraging good work ethics and offering support at every level our aim is to provide the best environment we can, to help our apprentices move forward and become valuable assets to our company.”
The collaborative efforts between educational institutions like Doncaster College and forward-thinking companies like Dobson & Hodge Ltd exemplify the symbiotic relationship that fuels the success of apprenticeships. Through structured training, mentorship, and hands-on experience, apprenticeships bridge the gap between education and employment, empowering individuals to thrive in their chosen fields.
Sam’s journey from uncertainty to fulfilment serves as a great example for other students who are navigating their career and education journey, and considering their next steps. His story underscores the immense value apprenticeships bring to both apprentices and employers, shaping futures and driving organizational success.
To learn more about apprenticeships you can visit our website: https://don.ac.uk/apprenticeships/
Or email apprenticeshipsupport@dncolleges.ac.uk
