We’re invested in finding employment and training opportunities that are right for each person. As part of this we’re major advocates of apprenticeships. They provide great practical experience while also giving the apprentice one-on-one support so they can grow and learn on the job.
Most recently we were really pleased that Libby Blackman, just one of many of our inspiring apprentices, was shortlisted as Apprentice of the Year at the Housing Heroes Awards. This is an amazing achievement and so well deserved.
Libby lives in Clanfield, East Hampshire with her husband and two daughters, Lyla and Lillie. She is an apprentice with our Employment, Support and Training (EST) team and here tells us more about her journey.
What led you towards the apprenticeship path?
My career in housing began when I undertook two weeks’ work experience in the Customer Services department with Abri. As a result I was then offered a six-month placement within the same area.
Following this I left to have my first child, which gave me even more reason to achieve and in May 2016 I began volunteering with EST. Two months later, in July, I successfully interviewed for the Level 3 Apprentice role.
I then completed my Level 3 in Business Administration and after my second child I returned to work in my current role – Level 4 Employability Practitioner Apprentice.
How has our employment team supported you?
The support I’ve received from the team has been amazing. From helping me with with my CV and interview skills, to giving me 1-1 guidance for assignments. I couldn’t ask for a more supportive, caring and understanding team and I thoroughly enjoy my role here at Abri. The variety of my role and the different aspects of learning throughout my day to day job keeps me really positive and focused.
What did being shortlisted for Apprentice of the Year mean to you?
I honestly didn’t expect to get shortlisted! I was very shocked that I had even been considered to have been shortlisted as there were so many other participants that had applied. Although I didn’t win, I feel that being shortlisted was a great achievement. Being recognised for my hard work and dedication means so much.
How do you feel Abri has helped you?
I feel Abri has helped me right from the start from when I was successful in getting into supported accommodation with them. They then helped me secure work experience. Both of these things have helped me get to where I am today.
I think volunteering is such a great step to take, especially as I was so unsure what to do when leaving school. I found the work experience was a great ice breaker and an insight into the business which allowed me to know more about the company. This definitely helped me when going through the interview process and gave me a better understanding of the career path I wanted to take.
What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?
If you’re considering it – do it! I always thought I knew what I needed to know, but honestly there is always so much more to learn. It is a great opportunity to push yourself and keep up to date with new ways of working, as well as exploring different opportunities within your career.
What do you hope to do once your apprenticeship comes to an end?
I would love to stay within the EST team, continuing to support customers and using my knowledge and skills within the business. It’s something I feel I can really relate to and give something back to others. Having someone support you can make such a difference!