Apprenticeship Questions – Time To Dispel The Myths

I am Susan Rashid, Managing Director of SR Supply Chain Consultants Ltd (SRSCC), responsible for Business Development and an active Trailblazer Group member. SRSCC are a training provider who specialise in business and procurement training and have been delivering apprenticeships since 2017.  This month I have asked learners, employers, my team, friends and family to share their thoughts and opinions about apprenticeships.  Clearly my team were biased, so I removed their opinions and came up with some questions instead, using their feedback. 

Common Questions About Apprenticeships

So, here are the common questions and misconceptions about apprenticeships and my attempt to provide answers and dispel the myths;

Why you shouldn’t do an apprenticeship?

You should not do an apprenticeship if –

  • you are under the age of 16 or retired 
  • you have not got a skill or/and knowledge requirement
  • you have not got support of an employer
  • you are not committed to developing yourself
  • you do not want to enhance or develop your career
  • you cannot commit to the full programme duration

In a nutshell, why not? Apprenticeships are open to everyone, provided you are 16 yrs plus and providing there is a knowledge and/or skill requirement.

 

What are the cons of apprenticeships?

  1. They require commitment of time and effort.
  2. You may start at an entry level.
  3. You are often working full time.
  4. A different experience to college.

 

What are the benefits of apprenticeships?

We struggled here as there are so many positives to completing an apprenticeship, including developing knowledge and skills, releasing your potential, being challenged, enhancing career opportunities and gaining a recognised qualification. Apprenticeships combine practical training in a job with study.

As an apprentice you will:

  • be an employee earning a wage and getting holiday pay
  • work alongside experienced staff
  • gain job-specific skills get time for training and study related to your role (at least 20% of your normal working hours)

 

(Source: https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/)

 

Are apprenticeships hard to get into?

Quite often apprentices are already in full time work and have a requirement to increase occupational competencies. 

For those that want to find an apprenticeship, you can discover some useful information here.  Many organisations advertise apprenticeship the same way they would advertise for any position; the competition can be high, although I am a great believer that there is a place for everyone.  No matter what your age or background is, using apprenticeship programmes to change or start a new career in a supportive environment is an opportunity not to be missed. 

In addition, there are many government incentives available to organisations for taking on apprentices and from speaking to employers this seems to be proving very popular.

 

Does an apprenticeship lead to a job?

For those not already in a secure role, more often than not yes, but not always. You should discuss this with your employer during the interview. Durations of apprenticeship programmes vary, so many businesses will not guarantee a position at the end. However, on the positive you will have successfully achieved valuable work experience and a recognised qualification which will increase your chances of securing a great job.

 

Is doing an apprenticeship a good idea?

Of course, why wouldn’t it be? As an apprentice you’ll:

  • Be an employee earning a wage and getting holiday pay.
  • Work alongside experienced staff.
  • Gain job-specific skills.
  • Get time for training and study related to your role (at least 20% of your normal working hours).
  • Gain a recognised qualification.
  • Complete an apprenticeship without student debt.
  • Supported by your Training Provider, EPAO and Employer.

Another advantage of being an apprentice is that you are not expected to know everything on day one. You are expected to make mistakes and are supported by your employer to learn and develop.

Having said this, if you are still unsure of your preferred occupation perhaps this is not the route to develop your skills and competencies. We would recommend you speak with a careers advisor who will discuss your skills, interests and experience and discuss various options.

 

Is an apprenticeship better than sixth form?

This depends on you and whether you would prefer to “learn on the job” whilst being paid and receiving other employee benefits. It also depends on what your longer-term plans are, where you want to be and what you want to do.

 

Common Apprenticeship Myths

It’s time to dispel the most commonly held myths about apprenticeships!

 

1. I am too old to do an apprenticeship.

I like to say you can always teach an old dog new tricks! Apprenticeships do not have an age barrier and you should only consider whether you require new skills and if you are approaching retirement, as well as whether you have time to commit to the full duration of the apprenticeship.

Apprenticeships are all encompassing, and the standards are high. Whether a school leaver, graduate or existing employee in a role held for 2 or more years, an apprenticeship could be the answer. Contrary to what many people think, there is no upper age limit with apprentices’ ranging between 16-60 from graduates to upskillers.

 

2. The government creates the learning content of an apprenticeship and is out dated.

Employer led trailblazer groups are responsible for developing and maintaining apprenticeship standards. Each standard is reviewed frequently to check the content is applicable, relevant and up to date.  Being led by employers means the occupational role and competencies are reflective of industry requirements ensuring the skills and competencies gained, guarantee the greatest opportunity for successful employment.

 

3. Apprenticeships are for those that didn’t do well at GCSE’s

Rubbish!  Some individuals learn better whilst being more “hands on” and completing practical tasks “doing”.  Apprenticeships could be considered the preferred option for those that didn’t do so well at their GCSE’s, however, don’t be misled into believing Apprenticeships are an easy option.  Apprentices are challenges and stretched to demonstrate and evidence their occupational knowledge and skills through various forms of assessment. Apprenticeships range from levels 2 through to level 7 which is degree equivalent.  Many of them including professional recognition.

Some apprentices choose to complete a “degree apprenticeship” rather than attend university, as it allows them to gain the academic qualification as well as the work experience.

 

4. Apprentices don’t add value to a business just take a lot of time and effort

Apprenticeship programmes are a great opportunity for businesses to close skill gaps whether they be within the organisation or team.  Developing an employee increases motivation and moral from the apprentice themselves to their colleagues.

Closing skills gaps and increasing motivation and moral will in turn increase productivity, quality and efficiency whilst ensuring continuity within functions. A survey conducted by apprenticeships.gov.uk found:

  • 86% of employers said apprenticeships helped them develop skills relevant to their organisation.
  • 78% of employers said apprenticeships helped them improve productivity.
  • 74% of employers said apprenticeships helped them improve the quality of their product or service.

An apprentice can be a sustainable investment in skills to support businesses as the economy recovers.

 

5. Apprentices are paid minimum wage

Yes, some apprenticeships attract a low/minimum wage. However, some have starting salaries for £18-£20k with milestone increases. Of course, remember apprenticeships are debt free! If individuals already in the workplace require to increase their skills for their role or change of role, salaries are not reduced.

 

6. Apprenticeships are for school leavers

Apprenticeships are open to everyone if they are 16 yrs or older and that there is a knowledge and/or skill requirement.  Our oldest apprentice was 56! (mentioning no names), however anyone of working age is able to start an apprenticeship, perhaps you are looking for a career change or simply attempting to upskill.

Apprenticeships are all encompassing, and the standards are high. Whether a school leaver, graduate or existing employee in a role held for 2 or more years, an apprenticeship could be the answer. Contrary to what many people think, there is no upper age limit with apprentices’ ranging between 16-60 from graduates to upskillers.

 

7. Apprenticeships cost business too much money

Since 2017, the employer levy requires all businesses with an annual pay bill in excess of £3 million to pay a compulsory tax, calculated at 0.5% of the pay bill.  Those who do not pay the levy are required to contribute 10% towards the cost of the apprenticeship, the government then pays the remaining 90%. Although a minimum wage is required, it is up to the employer whether they pay more.

 

8. 20% off the job training means a day per week out of the office or place of work

Incorrect, an apprentice must spend 20% of their working time acquiring new knowledge or skill whether this be in the workplace or their place of study.  There are many activities that can be included in off the job such as:

  • Attending study workshops, E-learning, Revision, Assignments and Research.
  • Team meetings, stakeholder meetings, off site visits, conferences, internal training, performance reviews, industry visits, shadowing, etc.

 

9. Apprenticeships are those wishing to be a plumber or electrician or other ‘manual’ jobs

Incorrect, traditionally apprenticeship were associated with “manual” jobs, however today, apprenticeships are available in all industries, sectors and professions from procurement to bricklaying.

 

10. Apprenticeships are for school drop outs

This perception is incorrect, if there is skill or knowledge to learn for your occupational role then an apprenticeship is ideal.  Here are SRSCC we have had Apprentices with MBA’s and PHD’s who have changed career direction and needed to obtain new skills.  This mix of experience levels and ages is a delightful contrast on the programmes both providing each other with differing levels of support.

 

Choose SRSCC For Your Apprenticeship Journey

Increase procurement knowledge, skills and competency with top accredited Procurement Apprenticeship Standards at SRSCC. Start your career here.

To find the right procurement and supply apprenticeship, please contact us by leaving a message online.
Alternatively, speak to an expert by calling 01772 282555.

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Apprenticeship Questions – Time To Dispel The Myths
2021-03-23T11:37:48+00:00
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Laura Killeen

Sales Executive

Laura has over 10 years of client focused experience in Sales, Marketing, Customer Service and Education. Laura completed Business Studies at Runshaw Adult College before successfully achieving a First Class Honors Degree in Tourism and Events Management at the University of Central Lancashire.

Laura joined SRSCC in 2021, previously supporting our Customer Service and Progress Mentor Team to provide academic and practical support for learners and employers on their apprenticeship journey.

In 2022 Laura embarked on her backpacking travels across South-East Asia before getting a real ‘travel bug’ and making her way to Australia where she lived and worked in Melbourne, Brisbane and road tripped along the West Coast in a roof top tent. After 18 months of travelling, she is back with us at SRSCC and settled back into home life!

Laura is now thrilled to join our business development team as sales executive. With an extensive sales background and familiarity with our courses and values, Laura is extremely passionate to provide guidance and support to potential learners and employers.

In her spare time Laura loves the outdoors, camping, festivals, mindfulness and travel.

Daniella Coelho

Customer Engagement Co-ordinator

Daniella joined the SRSCC team in July 2024 as a Customer Engagement Co-Ordinator Apprentice.

Bringing a wealth of experience from her 7-year career in customer service as a retail assistant, she is dedicated to developing her leadership and management capabilities in a business administration role.

In her free time, Daniella enjoys playing the drums, going on walks, and spending time with family, friends and two cats – Bobby and Buster.

Mark Hansbro

Progress Mentor and Functional Skills Tutor

Mark has 25 years learning and development experience gained whilst working for globally and nationally recognised organisations.

Having left school with grades that afforded him very few work opportunities Mark enrolled at Huddersfield Technical College. In his first year he was awarded the J I Case Europe Prize for student of the year, a turnaround his school teachers could not have predicted.

Following his time at Huddersfield Technical College Mark went onto graduate from Leeds Metropolitan University with a BA (Honours) in Business Studies, Huddersfield University with a PGCE in Further Education, and the CIPD with a Certificate in Training Practice.
Given the opportunities qualifications and subsequent work opportunities afforded to him Mark is driven to continually develop himself and those he is mentoring. Knowing that qualifications open doors and provide choices and opportunities for his apprentices / learners, as they did for him.

In his leisure time Mark enjoys:

  • Spending time with his Wife, teenage Son and young Cockerpoo.
  • Walking.
  • Socialising.
  • And following his football team, home and away.

Shannon Martin

Assessments Team Leader

Shannon joined the SRSCC Team in April 2024 as an Assessment Coordinator. Following a career in administrative roles and in invoice finance as a Relationship Manager, Shannon was ready for a career change and is looking forward to using her previous experience and transferable skills in this new role. A keen learner, Shannon is excited to expand her skills at SRSCC.

As of October 2024, Shannon has been promoted to Assessments Team Leader, where she is eager to contribute further to the team’s success and take on new responsibilities.

Outside of work, Shannon enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, and going on long country walks with her dog.

Matthew Johnston

Operations Manager

Matthew is a dedicated individual who has devoted 24 years of his life to serving as a Combat Medic, providing critical care and support in high-pressure situations.

Transitioning into a new chapter, he embarked on a career shift in February 2024, joining SR Supply Chain Consultants with a wealth of experience and knowledge in logistics management.

Matthew’s academic journey has been marked by his commitment to learning and growth, culminating in the attainment of a upper second Bachelor of Science (Hons) degree in logistics management. This academic foundation complements his extensive practical experience, which includes roles as an operations manager and a facilities manager.

With a unique blend of field expertise, strategic thinking, and managerial acumen, Matthew is poised to make significant contributions to SRSCC, leveraging his diverse skill set to drive efficiency and excellence in his new role.

Jack Callaghan

Operations Team Leader

In December 2023, Jack joined SRSCC as an Operations Coordinator and quickly established himself as a key member of the team.

Promoted to Team Leader in October 2024, Jack utilises his expertise in auditing processes and innovative problem-solving to identify and enhance growth opportunities.

Jack possesses a strong ability to analyse and refine systems and procedures, consistently uncovering chances for streamlining and automation that drive operational efficiency. He excels at communicating complex ideas with clarity and precision.

Detail-oriented yet big-picture focused, Jack applies his exceptional organisational skills to ensure the team adopts the most effective strategies for achieving both individual and collective goals.

His methodical approach and strategic mindset make Jack an invaluable asset to SRSCC, significantly contributing to the team’s success and the realisation of organisational objectives.

Sophie Drew

Operations Coordinator

Sophie joined the SRSCC Team in December 2023 as one of our Operations Coordinators.


Hailing from the picturesque county of Norfolk, she has 10 years of Administration experience, having most recently worked in Further Education.


Beyond the office walls, you’ll often find Sophie in the gym, or baking something up in the kitchen. She loves to spend time with family, friends and her two dachshunds – Digby and Bernie.

Kelly Little

Safeguarding and Prevent Lead

Kelly joined SRSCC in December 2023 as Safeguarding & Prevent Lead.

Kelly has worked in education for over 13 years, and has safeguarding and teaching experience ranging from Early Years right through to Higher Education.

Outside of work, Kelly enjoys spending time with her family and exploring different countries.

Amanda Wilson

Customer Success Manager

Amanda was delighted to join the SRSCC team in November 2023 as a Customer Success Manager. Amanda comes to us as a seasoned Area Manager with over 10 years of management expertise and a strong background in customer service spanning over 15 years. Amanda is a dedicated professional holding NVQ Level 3 in Management and Customer Service and is committed to driving excellence in both leadership and customer relations.

Outside of work, Amanda enjoys spending time with her family, walking her 2 dogs (which she adores) and reading.

Rachel Hampson

Progress Mentor and Functional Skills Tutor

Rachel was delighted to join SRSCC in November 2023 in her role as a Progress Mentor and Functional Skills Tutor.

Rachel has been teaching for over 15 years and her experience ranges from teaching young offenders and adults in Prison Education to Curriculum management in a Large FE college. Rachel has dedicated much of her career to teaching students who lack confidence in English and helping them overcome barriers preventing them from achieving. Rachel also tutors in her spare time and finds it very rewarding.

Outside of work, she likes to spend time with her family, go on holidays, but would love to see more of the world!

Victoria Prescott

CIPS Tutor

Victoria has a passion for teaching and mentoring that has consistently been a driving force in her career. She has conducted in-house training, developed educational materials, and mentored team members to help them excel in their roles. Victoria believes that effective teaching involves not only imparting knowledge but also fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability – skills that are essential in the world of procurement.

With over a decade of hands-on experience in procurement, throughout her career, Victoria has successfully managed procurement processes, negotiated complex contracts, and redesigned supply chain processes to optimise performance for various organisations. Her experience spans across industries, and she has a proven track record of achieving cost savings and improving operational efficiency.

Victoria is enthusiastic about her role in guiding students toward a deeper understanding of procurement and preparing them for successful careers in the field. Her goal is to inspire the next generation of buyers and supply chain professionals, equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in life and business.

She studied and passed her MCIPS with SR Supply Chain Consultants. Her training with the organization exposed her to its unique approach to problem-solving, customer service, and innovation. Victoria had the privilege of learning from seasoned professionals within the company, benefiting from their wealth of experience and expertise. This experience has not only enhanced her professional skills but has also instilled in her a deep appreciation for the company’s values and commitment to excellence.

Jessica Hogg

Administration Assistant

Jess went to college straight after school in Sheffield studying Health and Social care. She then moved to Blackburn and went onto University study Teaching and Learning Support and Education Studies- which she graduate from with a 2:1.

Jess worked within Customer Services whilst at University, and enjoyed being able to help assist clients. Jess’ next step was working in schools as a Teaching Assistant, giving her vast experience working with children who have SEMH needs. This helped her develop many skills and expanded her understanding in regard to the education sector. 

During her spare time Jess likes to go on days out with her husband and their daughter, going back to Sheffield to see her friends and family and taking her German Shepherd out on long walks in the countryside.  

Chloe Scott

Customer Success Manager

Chloe has a diverse professional background, starting her career as a Nursery Nurse Apprentice, where she completed her apprenticeship. She subsequently gained a wealth of experience in various roles including being a Nanny, a Sales Advisor and most recently as an Accommodation Coordinator.

During her time working in the nursery sector, she gained invaluable experience with Ofsted standards and requirements, which she skillfully navigated to ensure the nursery met all required benchmarks. Her adaptability and resilience are evident as she transitioned through several fields due to varied circumstances such as completion of her apprenticeship and the shifting dynamics of the COVID-19 pandemic.

She’s shown a remarkable commitment in every role she’s held, notably in her most recent employment as an Accommodation Coordinator. There, she managed a wide range of responsibilities including handling student complaints, coordinating with external contractors, and organising accounts and much more.

Outside work Chloe lives with her husband, 2 dogs and 3 cats. Chloe is a big advocate for animal welfare and mental health wellbeing.

Claire Dodd

Progress Mentor and Functional Skills Tutor

Claire graduated from Edge Hill University in 1997 with a BA (Hons) Degree in Social Studies with Qualified Teaching Status. During her time in the teaching profession, she predominantly worked as a class teacher with primary school age children. 4 years ago, she changed her role to a Teaching Assistant (Level 3) and set up her own home tutoring business, in the evenings, teaching children up to Year 10.

Outside of work, Claire enjoys going away in her motorhome for weekend breaks, going to the gym and walking her lively sausage dog.

Megan Pepper

Learner Engagement Mentor

Megan graduated in 2021 from Edge Hill University with a 1st class degree in BSc (hons) Child and Adolescent Mental Health and Wellbeing. During her time studying, I volunteered at a local youth centre where she worked with a range of young people through art and creative activities.

Since graduating, Megan’s worked in further education supporting students with SEND. This has given her a strong passion for supporting all students to overcome any barriers to their learning, promoting their independence and positive wellbeing to help them to succeed. Megan is excited to be working at SRSCC to apply her skills and knowledge to support learners in achieving the best outcomes.

In her spare time, you can always find Megan reading a book or practicing yoga and meditation- which has become such a positive start to her day. She loves keeping an active and busy lifestyle when not looking after her three guinea pigs, who definitely rule the house!

Gemma Crowhurst

Sales and Business Development Manager

Gemma is delighted to have joined our Business Development Team in May 2023

In the past, Gemma’s job roles have been varied and she has vast experience in a number of different managerial roles.

Gemma has excellent customer service skills and experience in sales and account management.

In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and going for walks with her 2 little dogs.

Every Thursday Gemma also teaches children dance and organises a show annually.

Eileen Moran

Quality and Compliance Manager

Eileen joined the SRSCC Team in 2023 as Quality and Compliance Manager. Having worked in the training and Apprenticeship industry for over 23 years, she has a particular focus on compliance and training.

Her key strengths include reviewing and the implementation of company policy and procedures, to ensure they are fit for purpose and meet regulatory requirements.

Eileen has a good all-round knowledge of the training industry and has been heavily involved in the preparation and planning of OFSTED, ESFA and Awarding Body on-site visits.

She describes herself as ambitious, dedicated and an excellent communicator with a real passion for improving the quality of occupational training.

Alison Hogg

Apprenticeship Progress & Guidance Manager

Alison has over 25 years experience in the government funded training industry, working across a number of occupational sectors and funding streams, including Apprenticeships and short courses.

She looks forward to sharing her knowledge and experience at SRSCC to enhance the already established Apprenticeship programmes and to further enhance her own knowledge in the procurement sector.

Linda Wilson

Progress Mentor and Functional Skills Tutor

In 2005, Linda decided to change her career from management to training, gaining a position with a training organisation, delivering full Apprenticeship’s which included NVQ’s and Functional Skills qualifications, later progressing to Internal Verifier, supporting the quality of other Assessors.

In 2017 she became a Functional Skills Tutor at HMP establishments, continuing until the 2020 Covid19 lockdowns.

She has since worked as a Careers Advisor on a National Careers Service contract, and as a Financial Wellbeing Mentor, supporting the Probation Service.

In her new role as Progress Mentor and Functional Skills Tutor with SRSCC, Linda is looking forward to using her knowledge and skills to give guidance and support to others.

Anjali Riley

Progress Mentor and Functional Skills Tutor

Anjali graduated from Edge Hill University in 1993 with a BA (Hons) in English with Qualified Teacher Status. She worked as a primary school teacher and supply teacher for over 25 years in different schools located in Derbyshire and Lancashire. In addition to her teaching qualifications, Anjali also holds TEFL and mentor certifications. She has also have volunteered with Lancashire Women, a charity that aids women in returning to employment, and worked at a local Barnardo’s shop alongside this.

Anjali’s aim is to apply her teaching knowledge and experience to her mentoring position by supporting, guiding, and assisting learners in accomplishing their goals.

Maddy Grant

Marketing Manager

Maddy graduated from Huddersfield University in 2009 with 2:1 in drama. She went on to travel and work in various customer-facing roles around the world. After returning to the UK, Maddy found her passion for marketing and social media and has supported companies as they look to grow their brand both nationally and international. 

Maddy is currently studying for the CIM Level 6 Digital Marketing Diploma.

Outside of work, Maddy can be found running around a hockey pitch or going for muddy walks with her husband and kids. 

Matthew Shepherd

Progress Mentor and Functional Skills Tutor

With over fifteen years’ experience in the education sector, Matthew is passionate about enabling learners to achieve their potential and breaking down barriers that may exist in ones learning journey.

Matthew graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University in 2008 with an BA(Hons) in Politics before moving into employment as a Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant. After a number of years in this position, Matthew gained his Qualified Teaching Status at St Mary’s University, before taking up a primary teaching post. In addition to classroom teaching, Matthew developed in his role as a middle-leader by heading the Physical Education, Religious Education and RSHE departments.

In his spare time, Matthew enjoys playing a number of sports such as football, golf and cricket, riding various types of heritage trains and buses, and is a keen reader of anything historical.

Matthew prides himself on his ability to get the best possible outcomes for his learners and has a proven track-record of achieving great results whilst giving people the tools they need to continue their learning as they move onto the next stage in their career.

Humayra

Humayra Patel

Administrative Assistant
Humayra’s first role after finishing college was as a Customer Service Advisor, where she developed her customer service & admin skills, helping her progress into a Senior Sales Advisor role. After 5 years, Humayra went on to work in a Bank as a Customer Financial Assistant, helping customers who were struggling financially. Humayra is now an Administration Assistant at SRSCC and is hoping to work towards a role in HR. Outside of work, Humayra has a passion for travelling and enjoys water hikes.

Emily Kitson

Administrative Assistant

Emily went straight into work after finishing school, working in the customer service sector for six years. After some time, Emily returned to studying alongside for her role in customer service and completed her qualifications in Animal Behavior and Zoology. Since getting back into education, she has found her love for learning, making SRSCC the perfect fit for her new passion.

Emily recently moved from Hampshire and set up her new roots in the Lancaster area where she also volunteers with Cats Protection. Emily relocated to be with her longtime partner, and they aim to travel the world as much as possible. She enjoys reading, playing video games, and watching an array of true crime documentaries.

Ruth Rogers

Ruth Rogers

Tutor

With over 25 years procurement and business practitioner experience, Ruth is passionate about engaging with students of all levels and making learning fun and enjoyable for all.

Ruth started her career in automotive via a company traineeship at Peugeot in 1990 and this is where she decided that purchasing was her niche. Following on from her degree Ruth has worked in various companies within the automotive and telecommunications sectors, particularly GPT, Marconi, ID Data Systems and JLR as a buyer progressing to senior management positions, and latterly designing, developing and delivering training courses for procurement within JLR.

In 2002 Ruth decided to move into the education sector delivering teaching and training in a wide range of Business, Strategy, Management, Operations & Supply and HR modules at Coventry University. This was combined with CIPS teaching delivery at City College Coventry across a wide range of the syllabus at all levels and becoming CIPS Course Manager. She was responsible for her and the team taking the college from a “Highly Commended” provider to a “Centre of Excellence”. Alongside this she has worked with CIPS as an assessor for 16 years, through syllabus changes for a variety of modules, specialising in Management in the Procurement Function and been an assessor on the Corporate Award Programme.

During her time working she has studied a BA Honours Degree in Business Information Technology, MBA in International Business and PGC in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education along with MCIPS and attaining Chartered Status. Having a combined knowledge of working in Further Education and Higher Education has provided Ruth with a broad spectrum of education subject knowledge in addition to Procurement Professionalism. Having a combined experience of procurement practice, business and education enables Ruth to give real life examples from experience within different organisational sectors that students can relate easily to.

Rachel Beardwell

Trainee Finance Manager

After being on maternity leave for a couple of years, Rachel decided it was time to pursue a career in Accounting and Finance. Rachel started studying her AAT Level 2 in 2022 and aims to continue studying her AAT course through to Level 3 and 4.

Outside of work, Rachel enjoys spending time with her family and friends, going on long walks and shopping.

Jen Shepherd

Admin and Customer Service Manager

Jenn completed her Apprenticeship in Business and Administration in 2008 and has since built upon a foundation of knowledge and skills in the administration and customer support areas.

Jenn has a degree, as well as a master’s degree, in English which have helped support her commitment to compliance and attention to detail.

Since returning to work from maternity leave in 2020, Jenn has worked in education settings and has an in-depth knowledge on Safeguarding and Child Protection, which she believes is a key part of all employees’ role when working with learners.

Outside of work, Jenn lives with her husband and two young daughters. She had her first book published in 2022 and advocates for the mental wellbeing of new parents.

michelle whalley

Michelle Whalley

Course Progress Mentor

Michelle graduated from Liverpool John Moore’s University in 2003 with a BA(HONs) in Physical Education, Sport, Dance and English, with Qualified Teacher Status. Michelle now holds 20 years’ experience of working in education. Her experience to date is hugely diverse, with a love for learning and striving for excellence across all areas of her life developed from when she was a young girl, representing her country at Athletics. It was from this platform Michelle developed a disciplined approach to every tasks set of her. During her time in teaching, she has taught a wide range of subjects, been a pastoral leader, and led ITT programmes.

Michelle prides herself on her ability to get the best possible outcomes out of people. This has been proven not only in the time she’s spent in education, but also in the set up and running of her own business.

Working in a fast-paced environment, especially becoming a Head of Year as well as teaching has consistently challenged her and ensured she’s flexible and adaptable

Lucy Eckersley

Operations Manager

After recently graduating university and achieving a first-class degree in Drama, Lucy wanted to apply her production management experience to an administration role in business. Having worked part time jobs as a waitress and office receptionist during her education, Lucy has good customer service skills and enjoys helping customers and clients by addressing their queries. Lucy is excited to be working at SRSCC and is keen to use her process driven way of working to increase the effectiveness of SRSCC’s administrative processes. In her free time, Lucy enjoys watching musicals and running. She also enjoys spending time outdoors, and loves going hiking from her caravan in the Yorkshire Dales.
Tom Himsworth

Tom Himsworth

Administrative Assistant

Tom graduated from Edgehill University in 2015 with a degree in Creative Writing. After Tom’s journey through university, he worked extensively within the Healthcare sector in mostly administrative roles. It was here that he found his natural organized and observant manner was best suited as it allowed him to understand how each work environment operated, and where processes, customer service and communication could be improved for the benefit of everyone. Throughout his working life, Tom has gained experience with varying mental health conditions and is passionate about advocating the importance of mental health support and well-being. He is currently looking into various volunteer schemes to help champion mental health awareness. Along with this, Tom is an avid writer and is usually working on a story or two and is passionate about learning more about all forms of creative media.
Estelle Marsden

Estelle Marsden

Customer Support Coordinator

Estelle has completed apprenticeships in both Business Administration and Customer service. Her first Role after leaving school was a receptionist at a Podiatrist and that is where she found her passion for helping people and providing positive customer experiences. After 4 years she then moved into retail where her skills progressed further. Estelle has several years’ experience in a customer facing environment, which has led her to the role of Customer Support Coordinator here at SRSCC. Estelle is hoping to expand her expertise further and progress with SRSCC. Other than her passion for Customer Service. Estelle enjoys walking, Hiking, and exploring in her free time. She also enjoys going to the theatre and watching true crime. Estelle likes to spend most of her time with family and friends.

Emma Jackson

Course Progress Mentor

Emma joined SRSCC in 2019 on a freelance basis taking on a teaching and learning consultancy role. She has 20 years of experience in education as a qualified teacher, working in adult learning, secondary and primary school settings in the UK as well as abroad, namely Japan, Hungary, and France. 

More recently Emma has been teaching yoga, resilience, and mindfulness in primary schools to promote the physical and mental well-being of both pupils and staff.

Being multi-lingual and having a zeal for communication, cultural exchange and life-long learning Emma jumped at the opportunity to join the company as a Course Mentor. Building a good rapport with her learners, supporting them to overcome any challenges on their apprentice journey and facilitating them to fulfil their potential is her motivation.

Cumbrian born and bred in the Lake District, Emma enjoys the outdoors. When not relaxing in tree pose, she is most at home trail running in the hills with her husband and dog. Having clocked up 4 marathons to date, the application of her long-distance running mindset of perseverance, determination, discipline and patience is key to supporting her learners in their studies.

SRSCC Staff Images Ashlee Scribbins

Ashlee Scribbins

Office Administrator

Ashlee has joined the SRSCC team as an Office Administrator, and with a level 2 and 3 in Business Administration, she fits right in!

Ashlee has a wide range of experience from working as a Legal Secretary for the Royal Air Force to managing a team. Ashlee is eager to use her customer service and business administration skills for her new role at SRSCC.

Declan Hemingway

Marketing Manager
Declan joined SRSCC in 2020 after graduating from University studying BSc Business and Management with Marketing, achieving a 2:1. Declan was looking for a role in Business Development to put his knowledge and education to the test by liaising with potential and existing learners through building customer relationships and understanding their requirements. After just over a year and a half at SRSCC, Declan has moved into the role of Marketing Manager. His aim is to increase brand awareness of SRSCC, generate new business leads, and co-ordinate marketing strategies & projects.