Q&A with Former Apprentice Teaching Assistant, Lisa Foster from Rochdale Borough Council at Lower Place Primary School.

Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship? What were you doing previously?

I chose to do the apprenticeship because I wanted to achieve more and I knew that I wanted to work with children. I am really good with children. Before I did the apprenticeship, I worked as a textile machinist and have done this since leaving school.

What skills or other qualifications have you developed whilst on your apprenticeship?

I have gained skills in how to support child development, including how to support and work with SEN children.

I have gained knowledge of policies and procedures including Safeguarding and Prevent.

Maths Level 2 Functional Skills

English Level 2 Functional Skills

Teaching Assistant Level 3 Apprenticeship

What challenges do you feel you have overcome, whilst on your apprenticeship?

I have autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia and developmental language disorder. These have all been challenges to me throughout my life, that have hindered me from being able to achieve anything prior to coming to Rochdale Training. When I was at school, learning needs were not recognised or supported and so I was always just left to get on with it, without any proper support.

How was Rochdale Training as your training provider?

The best. I feel that Rochdale Training has supported me in all aspects of my learning. It's like they have just understood and accepted me for who I am. It has felt nice to be able to talk about the support I need and actually get that support. Also, it is nice that Rochdale Training acknowledges that everyone can achieve, no matter what their difficulties are.

Would you recommend apprenticeships?

Yes – It's good because you learn on the job, whilst being paid. You can also get your maths and English at the same time. I think apprenticeships are the best way to get a qualification.

Would you recommend Rochdale Training?

Yes – As mentioned above. Rochdale Training has a very supportive team who care about people who want to do better for themselves.

A quote from you about how you felt your apprenticeship went/how you feel about it

My apprenticeship has been life-changing for me and my family. I have gained skills and knowledge that I have for life and I have gained my maths and English, which takes away barriers for me when applying for jobs in the future.

Lisa’s Tutor Charlotte Baron said: “When Lisa came to Rochdale Training, she commented that if she left Rochdale Training with one certificate, it would be one more than she has ever had.

She has left us with 5 certificates and has been offered a permanent role at the school. She has worked so hard and been so determined to do well, she has done herself proud.”

Are you looking to start your Apprenticeship journey? Check out all of our current Apprenticeship  vacancies at: https://www.rochdaletraining.co.uk/apprenticeships or contact our Recruitment Lead Nathan Finn at 01706 631417 or nfinn@rochdaletraining.co.uk

Q&A with Apprentice Engineer, Lucy from NEMA Ltd

What were you doing prior to your Apprenticeship?

Before starting my Apprenticeship, I came straight from high school. My primary goal wasn’t an Engineering Apprenticeship though as I started in an Accountancy work placement in an Engineering firm and I realised I didn’t want to be in the offices, I wanted to be in the Engineering workshop as I was more suited to a practical environment.

Why did you choose an Apprenticeship?

I wanted to be able to earn money whilst also gaining practical experience and wanted to learn from people who were already in the industry rather than just sitting in a classroom, learning the theory behind Engineering. It has helped me to develop a lot of different skills such as how to use the machines, how to do winding, and all sorts of useful skills that I use in my day-to-day job role.

What other skills are you hoping to learn while on your Apprenticeship?

I am hoping to keep developing my winding skills further and become an expert in the field. Along with this, I’m also hoping to work on my soft skills such as my confidence although I do feel I am more confident talking to new people, and I would still like to develop a few more personal skills.

How is Rochdale Training as your Training provider?

Great! When I come to the workshop I never feel uncomfortable, I feel like I can get the best of out my learning experience and I have never had any issues whilst I have been with Rochdale Training. I feel as though it is a better environment for me rather than a college as even though I am not at work, I am still learning practically in the workshop, rather than at a desk in a classroom environment.

Would you recommend Apprenticeships to other people?

Absolutely. Not only is it a great way to get a step in the door of a workplace and the industry you want to progress into but you also learn lots of different skills and get paid while working and learning.

Would you recommend Rochdale Training to other people?

Yes. As mentioned earlier I have never had any problems and I am happy and comfortable with them as my Training provider so I would definitely recommend them to other people.

Are you looking to start  your Apprenticeship journey? Check out all of our current Apprenticeship  vacancies at: https://www.rochdaletraining.co.uk/apprenticeships or contact our Recruitment Lead Nathan Finn at 01706 631417 or nfinn@rochdaletraining.co.uk

Shelley came to Rochdale Training to study Functional Skills Maths at Level 2.

Her previous experience of Maths was not a good one and despite her outgoing and bubbly personality it was clear to see that she was not looking forward to having to work through all the topics involved and sit the exam at the end of the course.

Despite her fears and reservations, she attended every class, was always focused and worked hard to understand each different method, formula and technique required.

At the end of the course, Shelley took her Level 2 Maths exam and unfortunately didn’t achieve it, which was a real blow to Shelley’s confidence, explaining afterwards she did say that she was ready to give up.

Shelley’s Maths tutor Peter Thomas said “After speaking to Shelley at length I managed to convince her to try again, and so she did. She attended more classes, showed determination and focus and continued to work hard.

After some words of encouragement, I persuaded her that she was capable, she was ready and despite her concerns, self-doubt and lack of confidence, she had what it took to achieve.”

In February 2024, Shelley took her Level 2 Functional Skills Maths exam, and she achieved it, it was well deserved and a credit to her sheer determination. Congratulations Shelley!

Shelley said: “It was hard and I did doubt myself but I absolutely loved it, I loved coming to class every week and the other members of the group were super supportive, the support was brilliant I’m very proud of what I have achieved. I would recommend Rochdale Training to anyone, it is a great, supportive learning environment.”

Are you looking to achieve your Functional Skills in Maths or English qualifications? For more information please contact our Recruitment Team at 01706 631417 or recruitment@rochdaletraining.co.uk