"I believe everyone should be given the support they need to get ahead in life, and if I can help anyone in any way with the process that leads them to being offered an apprenticeship then I feel my role is worthwhile."
What led you to work for PETA?
My favourite 'O' level subjects at school were English, Geography, Biology and PE. Towards the end of my schooling I decided I didn't want to do 'A' levels or go to college as I wanted to do something different. My wish came true and I spent the next 22 years in the Royal Navy and during my time there I added a couple more qualifications to my belt, an 'O' level in Seamanship and an NVQ4 in Business Administration.
What is your role at PETA and what drives you to do what you do?
After posting our apprenticeship vacancies on multiple sites I am the first point of contact for those applying for an apprenticeship. I am responsible for sifting through CV's and application forms and ensuring video profiles are submitted. In addition, I respond to enquiries about our programmes which are submitted by potential applicants or parents/guardians seeking advice about apprenticeships.
I believe everyone should be given the support they need to get ahead in life, and if I can help anyone in any way with the process that leads them to being offered an apprenticeship then I feel my role is worthwhile.
What knowledge or experience do you draw upon for your role?
During my time in the Navy, training was competency based and was independently assessed at the end, where do they use that approach now?
I left the Navy in 1999 and have been involved with apprenticeships in various roles ever since. I was a contract manager for apprenticeship accounts with Hampshire TEC and the Learning & Skills Council, then joined the National Apprenticeship Service from its formation in 2009 until 2016 when I left to join PETA.
How do you approach your role on a day-to-day basis? What skills are required?
In my job role there are 3 stages to the process. Firstly, all new applicants are contacted to acknowledge receipt of their application and are informed about the process. The daily numbers can differ significantly, the most applicants to date is 83 so I'm glad I don't have to pay for my calls! Secondly, those candidates who are yet to submit their application form are contacted and asked to do so. Thirdly, those candidates who are yet to submit their video profiles are asked to do so.
At all stages candidates are given advice and guidance if they are unsure what to do. The skills required for this role are patience, empathy and self-discipline. I even attempt multi-tasking but we all know males are not good at that!
What's the most important thing for people to take away from reading this bio?
If you're unsure whether or not an apprenticeship is for you then please get in touch.
What are you passionate about outside of work?
Family (wife, children and grandchildren) and football (season ticket holder at Pompey).
What are your personal values, and what is important to you?
Honesty and loyalty, family and football!