Our March Apprentice of the Month, Suki Sinclair recently completed her Apprenticeship, so we got in touch to ask about her learning experience with SRSCC, how the Apprenticeship helped her grow professionally, and what her plans are for the next step in her career.
Name: Suki Sinclair
Job Title: Assistant Buyer
Employer: J Murphy & Sons
Before starting your apprenticeship, did you know what to expect/have any concerns about doing an apprenticeship?
I’ll be honest I didn’t really know what to expect especially with the apprenticeship side as I have never done one before. I am also of a certain age, so it has been quite a while since I have been in education.
How did the support you received at SRSCC help you in achieving your Apprenticeship?
The workshops/tutorials and resources provided are excellent and I think the tutors and mentors give you a positive space and opportunity to ask any questions and provide 1:1 if needed. My tutor Emma was a great solace as I could openly discuss my personal struggles with her and felt thoroughly supported throughout.
Did you experience any struggles or tough moments along the way? If so, how did you overcome them?
I started the course in 2020 so we had Covid to contend with along the way and I also had a lot of challenges in my personally life, with my son, which made all aspects of my learning quite difficult at times. I was fully supported by SRSCC and my Line Manager, so I was able to navigate my way through my difficulties and complete my level 4, even if it did take me probably longer than most.
How has the Apprenticeship helped you grow as a person and develop your professional skills?
I think with anything that puts you slightly out of your comfort zone you can only gain confidence once you have made the achievement. I feel that I have been able to learn so much that it has given me a much wider skill set and understanding that I can now adopt into my day-to-day role.
Have you had the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in real-world scenarios? If so, can you describe your experience with this?
I feel more than anything it has enabled me to think more like a procurement professional and be able to challenge or provide better alternatives with a clearer knowledge of procurement and supply.
What did you enjoy most about your apprenticeship?
Completing it!
What advice would you give to someone thinking of doing an Apprenticeship?
Do your research and know exactly what will be expected from you so you can way up what your commitments are at work and in your personal life. Set yourself up to succeed as I think you can underestimate how much work is involved.
Have you considered continuing with the next level of study?
I definitely would like to do my Level 5.
Congratulations Suki on successfully completing your Level 4 Commercial Procurement and Supply Chain Apprenticeship!
Want to boost your career with an Apprenticeship?
Find out how an Apprenticeship can enhance your procurement and supply chain career by contacting a member of our Business Development Team using the button below.
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