Not only does South Gloucestershire and Stroud College support more than 1,000 employers each year with apprenticeship programmes, but SGS is now taking on apprentices for job roles within the college.
Kelly Gillett, director of people and organisational culture at SGS College, said: 'We're very keen to support the training and development of our team and to offer young people an opportunity to build a qualified career in HR.
'As a HR team in a further education college, it’s important we engage in the ethos of what makes our college a brilliant place to work and study.'
And managing apprentices has its perks — Kelly says providing opportunities for trainees to develop new ideas and approaches is a really enjoyable aspect of her role.
She said: 'Apprenticeships are invaluable for both the apprentice's learning and the
development of new initiatives within the college. We currently have nine HR team members on various apprenticeship standards. It’s a privilege to
be part of their journey and see them develop. They share ideas and work
together brilliantly.'
Amy Weaver, who is currently undertaking a Level 3 apprenticeship within the college's HR department, explained that she chose to take the apprenticeship path as she wasn't sure university was the right choice for her.
She was drawn to the fact she could gain a qualification, work experience and gain a wider understanding of how the sector works — as well as getting a clear picture of what she likes within the job role.
'My favourite part of the role is that no day is the same and you see a wide variety of different queries each day,' she said.
'I feel SGS College, as an employer, is very welcoming and supportive. The team I work with are particularly encouraging and we all work together to help each other out when needed. I know I could approach anyone in the team for help and they would all be willing to assist me.'
Once Amy has completed her current Level 3 apprenticeship, she plans to begin the Level 5 CIPD qualification, aiming to progress within HR at the college.
Apprenticeships are recognised as having a positive impact on employee retention and helping to develop an inquisitive, forward-thinking team. Kelly hopes that by providing training, work opportunities and autonomy the team will stay at the college.
'If they don’t stay and they progress onto other wonderful opportunities we have proudly been part of their story,' she said.
'I'd urge businesses not to hesitate to employ apprentices. Offering apprenticeships is an approach I will always support. And HR can be a great transferable workforce due to the wide range of businesses requiring HR skills.'
Kelly currently has team members
on the Level 3 HR Support, Level 5 People Professionals and Level 3 Payroll.
For more information on apprenticeships available at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College visit sgscol.ac.uk.
