Apprenticeships+: Providing long-term career opportunities with great employers

Facilities Management Apprentice Jagpal Singh shares how his apprenticeship is already supporting him in developing his career.

Over the past 15 months, Jagpal Singh has been doing a Level 2 apprenticeship in Facilities Management with Apprenticeships+ while working as a Housing Apprentice within the Neighbourhood Services team at Islington Council. Since starting his apprenticeship, Jagpal has succeeded in becoming a Quality Assurance Officer at Islington Council.

What had you done before you started your apprenticeship?

Before my apprenticeship, I had no experience in anything related to facilities. My career background was mostly in retail, customer service, and hospitality. My highest educational achievement was A-levels in History, Sociology and Design Technology.

Why did you choose to study with Apprenticeships+?

I chose an apprenticeship because I believed it was the best way to start a long-term career, especially given my background and not having a university degree. I chose Apprenticeships+ because the course was paired with a great employer, a local government council, which presented a valuable opportunity.

What did you like about the course?

I really appreciated how the course integrated learning with practical experience, as it pushed me to further develop my knowledge, skills, and my confidence.

I chose an apprenticeship because I believed it was the best way to start a long-term career. […] I chose Apprenticeships+ because the course was paired with a great employer.

What was the highlight of your apprenticeship experience?

Even though the learning process was enjoyable, one of the highlights of my apprenticeship was finally completing my assignments and coursework. It felt great to look back and see all the work and knowledge I’d built in a field I previously knew nothing about.

How was your apprenticeship relevant to your role?

The essay component of the apprenticeship provided a strong theoretical foundation in key topics such as sustainability, career development, health and safety, and how to foster positive relationships with customers. These theoretical learnings were directly applicable to my practical work and helped me perform with greater knowledge and efficiency.

Additionally, the evidence portion of the apprenticeship encouraged me to explore different departments and foster positive relationships while maintaining a high standard of work. This aspect of the apprenticeship was particularly valuable in highlighting my work ethic and providing a broad understanding of the organisation’s operations.

What did you find challenging about the course?

I think that the most challenging aspect of the course was the coursework. At times, it was difficult to translate my practical work into well-structured written evidence. 

How did you manage working while completing your apprenticeship?

I set clear goals and created a schedule that balanced both my practical work and the requirements of my apprenticeship, which ultimately supported my achievement. Managing my practical work alongside my apprenticeship gave me a deeper understanding of my responsibilities and provided me with the confidence to navigate my tasks effectively.

How are you feeling about the End Point Assessment (EPA)?

I was recently triggered for my EPA after 12 months on the course, and although I have not yet completed it, I feel very confident about completing my assessment.

How have your employer and the college supported you?

My employer supported me throughout the apprenticeship, opening paths for me whenever necessary to complete requirements for my course, such as for coursework. The college supported me by always keeping me confident. I had an amazing tutor who consistently encouraged me and reminded me of how well I was doing.

How has the apprenticeship benefitted your career?

I am pleased to share that I have been promoted to the position of Quality Assurance Officer from my previous role as a Housing Apprentice within Islington Council. Over the course of the year, my practical work and apprenticeship were closely aligned, which allowed me to develop both the knowledge and skills required to succeed in my new role. The combination of practical experience and academic knowledge has been instrumental in my development, and I am excited to apply these learnings in my new role as Quality Assurance Officer.

Do you have any advice for anyone embarking upon an apprenticeship?

I highly recommend an apprenticeship. At times, it can be overwhelming balancing the course and practical work, but it’s important to remain calm and always be willing to reach out for help. The opportunities are endless.

What’s next for you?

I am working towards becoming an Estate Service Coordinator, which is a step up from my current position.

Whether you’re looking to understand apprenticeships as an employer, wondering how to do an apprenticeship while employed or looking for apprenticeship job vacancies, find out how Apprenticeships+ can guide you through the process and support your apprenticeship journey.

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