National Apprenticeship Week: Meet Lewis

Although my apprenticeship is still very much in its infancy, with my time at FEPS only beginning in September 2022, the choice has already proved to be the right choice for me. As with any apprenticeship, it provides the opportunity to combine a more traditional learning environment with experience in the workplace. The wealth of knowledge I have gained in such a small period of time is staggering. Not only does this time represent a growth in transferable skills and useful workplace experience but also, the opportunity to apply my learning in a working environment has undoubtedly helped cement my knowledge and provide the perfect pathway between the worlds of education and work.

When studying similar subjects previously, I found it easy to lose sight of the application of my knowledge and of the true utility of data and this is in stark contrast to my experience at FEPS. The importance of my role and the tasks I perform has never been in doubt and this reinforcement has not only provided a source of motivation but has spurred a genuine interest in the impact I, and by proxy data, can have on the efficiency and function of the business. This helps me to strive to not only complete my daily work to the best of my ability, but to progress through my apprenticeship to the best of my ability to gain the knowledge to aid the business as much as possible.

The biggest impact, in my short time at FEPS, has been the extent to which my colleagues and the company, as a whole, are willing to commit to and help me achieve my apprenticeship. Whilst in some apprenticeships, you can feel like a separate entity from those in full employment, it has been made clear to me that my value is the equivalent of those around me both in terms of my output and my ability to recommend changes and challenge the status quo when relevant. Rather than delegating simple and time-consuming tasks to me, as I had anticipated before beginning my apprenticeship, I have been trusted to move head on into the workload, a challenge I have embraced and enjoyed in equal measure. All these factors combine to make, what I would describe as the ideal apprenticeship experience, as I am granted the time and opportunities to pause and reflect on new learning when required, whilst also providing a constant, challenging workflow to keep me occupied.

From the wealth of opportunities and the variety of tasks I am offered, to the positive atmosphere around the office, I am unsure there is a better place to quickly settle and develop professionally. FEPS combines a challenging and rewarding job role with a positive and constructive work environment resulting in an atmosphere that is ideal for all employees. Their ability to provide an authentic working experience without compromising on an apprentice’s development has been second to none.