Caroline
Searle

Why did you choose to do this apprenticeship?

I wanted growth within my current role and the Level 3 felt like a good place to start. This course offers a wide range of subjects that are relevant to my role and have given me the opportunity to expand my knowledge.

What stands out about NTU and Brackenhurst?

The Campus is small and easy to negotiate. Everyone is very friendly and helpful, and I have felt at ease studying at NTU from day one.

How do you find your modules and what have you most enjoyed studying?

The course offers a varied range of modules that are broken into bite sized pieces.  We are given the background to each subject when we attend block weeks and then tasked with researching in more detail or relating it to our own business during our off the job study time. I have enjoyed the practical elements of the course, especially spending time in the labs.

How do you believe this apprenticeship will affect both your current job role and future career?

This apprenticeship will help me evolve within my career. I have extensively grown my knowledge and learnt the skills needed to be able to adapt this knowledge into workplace situations. I have learnt new areas of the business and have been able to grow my role already, as a result of attending NTU.

How would you rate the teaching and support staff on this apprenticeship?

The teaching staff have been incredibly supportive. I have regular progress reviews, that give me the opportunity to discuss where I am with assignments, what my next focus will be and also gives me the opportunity to raise any concerns I may have with my Tutor. During block weeks the teaching staff deliver well prepared lectures. The formats are easy to understand, and the Lecturers are always willing to give more information or support, if you need it.

What do you think of the facilities available at Brackenhurst?

For a small campus the facilities are pretty good. There are plenty of resources in the library, there are quiet study areas as well as areas to study as a group. I’ve used the Refectory several times, although I do find the menu a bit limited, so I tend to bring my own lunches.

How have you balanced studying alongside your professional role? How have you found the support from your employer?

My employer has been very committed to my study time. I pre-arrange this time with my line leader and have used this dedicated time to research and write assignments as well as spending time shadowing colleagues to understand their job functions. This has worked well for me, and I have managed to keep up to date with the work that has been set. I have also been given the time to attend the online learning sessions that are held between block weeks.

What is your favourite thing about your apprenticeship?

The block weeks are my favourite part of the apprenticeship. I have been lucky enough to have a really good, supportive, group of students with me on this course and have made several friends. Spending time onsite really allows me to fully focus on the lectures being given as well as carry out practical’s using equipment that I would otherwise not have access to.

What skills and experience have you gained as part of this apprenticeship? Has there been anything that you were not expecting?

I was concerned about starting Uni because I had not been in an education setting for a number of years, but I need not have worried. Everyone is very helpful and supportive. The class subjects are easy to follow and delivered by PowerPoint, which you have access to after the lessons. I have grown in confidence with presenting, both in person and via Teams. I have a greater understanding of other aspects of my business now, such as Health & Safety, Quality, Product Information and Marketing. It has given me the confidence to think outside my role, and to the business as a whole. For example, following on from a Health & Safety assignment I have now volunteered to be a ‘Health & Safety Champion’ for my department.