NOTHING TO LOSE AND EVERYTHING TO GAIN

Many employers would agree that in a busy working week, finding time for staff development and learning can feel like a bit of a challenge. Here at Landmarc, through the Apprenticeship Levy, we are able to finance training qualifications for our staff, to help upskill and improve knowledge. 

During this week’s National Apprenticeship Week, we’re celebrating the diverse range of opportunities that modern apprenticeships have to offer. Here’s Sheila Smith, one of our Administration Supervisors, explaining why she took the plunge and decided to study for an additional qualification while working full time.


Sheila Smith, one of our Administration Supervisors is currently studying an apprenticeship to help improve her management skills. Even though Sheila has already been working for us for over six years, she’s convinced it’s never too late to learn.

“My role as an Administration Supervisor for the East Region sees me working with a dedicated team of four administrators who deal with a large variety of tasks, from purchase orders to booking administrations.

“Working together, pitching in and being willing to go the extra mile are key attributes of the team and I’m proud of the way that we all work really well together.

“However, I like to think that it’s useful to step back from the day job and analyse how things are done and whether changes could be made to make things better still.

“That’s why I decided to take on an 18-month apprenticeship to further improve my skills.  I won’t pretend it’s easy.  It can be difficult to juggle the desire to do the best job I can, and take care of my staff while finding time to study.  But I tell myself that doing my coursework will enable me to improve my performance and staff management further, so the longer-term outcome makes it all worthwhile.

“Landmarc and the training provider use a variety of techniques to make it as easy as possible for us to learn new skills. For example, I have identified some off the job training with my mentor, followed by virtual classes and face-to-face tutorials.  There is also ongoing telephone support with my tutor.

“I always say to people that if you are offered the opportunity to study for an apprenticeship and are self-motivated, then why not?  You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.”