What's your name? And what Apprenticeship programme are you currently on?
Andrew, Human Resources L5 CIPD Apprenticeship
What is your background prior to joining the Apprenticeship programme?
I served with the military (army) for 9 years prior to leaving to focus on my family and civilian career. I moved to a Financial Services organisation and was employed in various roles, including customer service, administration, and account management, prior to deciding to pursue a career in HR and joining Amazon on the Apprenticeship programme.
At what point did you start to think about Apprenticeships?
It was a very recent decision. I was in a job that I loved, but where I wasn’t sure about the career for the long-term. I decided at the start of 2022 to go after my dream, which was to build my career in HR. I started looking for a junior HR position and self-funding options for a CIPD qualification, at which point I saw an Apprenticeship job advert and realised that it might be exactly what I needed to achieve my goal - and the rest is history.
Why did you choose this option over other opportunities (alternative work or University)?
I valued the opportunity to learn in a hands-on way, be paid a fair wage, and study towards a qualification (at no cost to me) all at the same time. I feel that I learn best on the job, so an Apprenticeship felt like a natural step for me.
What made you choose Amazon to do your Apprenticeship?
I was impressed by Amazon’s values - it’s leadership principles - and I felt there would be ample room for me to grow and develop myself; after all, it was investing in me from day 1! The pay and benefits being offered were competitive and in-line with my non-Apprentice colleagues in the same job role. I thought that was inclusive and generous, and stood out from some Apprentice schemes offered elsewhere.
How has the Apprenticeship helped you develop professionally? (How will you use the Apprenticeship to benefit your future plans)
The Apprenticeship has unlocked my dream career and turbocharged my development, helping me to rapidly gain practical experience which I can evidence and use to further grow my career in the future.
What would you say to someone who is thinking of applying to become an Apprentice?
Definitely apply - an Apprenticeship is so rewarding! You are being invited to achieve a qualification that will boost your career, for free, alongside support with your learning. At the end of the day, you are making an investment in yourself, and I think that should sell itself.
What advice would you give to others with a military background who are considering Apprenticeships?
Apprenticeships are an amazing opportunity and a gift to those leaving the military and starting a brand-new career. They’re a great way to land on your feet as you leave service and offer a great chance to upskill and evidence your knowledge to employers. I’d recommend Apprenticeships without hesitation to anyone!