It’s National Apprenticeship Week from 5 March 2018, so we thought we would catch up with Harriet Kirk to see how she is getting on. Harriet progressed on to do a level 3 apprenticeship in graphic design after completing her business administration level 2 apprenticeship in the marketing department at Leicester College.
What made you decide to go on to do graphic design?
I thought about my strengths and my biggest strength is my creative flair so I decided that the graphic design route fitted my ambitions best. I spoke to my dad, my partner and my work colleagues and they helped me with my decision too.
What do you enjoy the most about it?
I get on really well with my colleagues and they always help me if ever I’m stuck or need advice. I also enjoy my lessons because they give me the chance to express my own creativity without having to relate it to the College or a specific concept.
What skills have you learned so far?
My design skills have really improved. I’ve learned how to use ‘Indesign’ and ‘Illustrator’ in more depth and they are great stepping stones for me.
My people skills and communication skills have also improved a lot. I was never the talkative type, I was always the shy one at school and quiet at home. But being an apprentice and working with others has brought me out of my shell.
What advice would you give anyone who was thinking about doing an apprenticeship themselves?
In my opinion, apprenticeships are a great way to get experience in the industry you want to work in whilst gaining qualifications at the same time. Plus you will end up with a better understanding of what it’s really like to work in the industry than a graduate would. Apprenticeships can be very flexible and open up a lot of options that you never even thought about.
How you could benefit from an apprenticeship?
- You can learn on the job with the support of a mentor.
- You can earn a salary whilst all your training is paid for.
- You can gain experience in your chosen industry and make valuable contacts.
- You can progress to degree level and increase your earning potential.
You can choose a vacancy to suit you from a wide range of industries. Find out more about opportunities through Leicester College or visit notgoingtouni for further advice and guidance.
If you are an employer looking for an apprentice, you can contact us to discuss your options.