Apprenticeships - Case Studies
Vicky Brewer
Animal Nursing Assistant
Vicky has worked with animals for some time. She started work at the age of 13 helping out on Saturday’s for Belmont Veterinary Practice. She went straight to the Holme Lacy campus after leaving school to get her National Diploma in Animal Care. Vicky has worked at the practice full time in order to get her Animal Nursing Assistant qualification, which she starts this September and will then use to be able to progress on to the Veterinary Nursing programme. Having grown up on a farm, Vicky knew this is all she ever wanted to do – work with animals.
“Whilst studying for the National Diploma in Animal Care I made friends for life. I received great support from the staff and the course gave me a good insight into the daily activities within animal care settings. I am now looking forward to starting the Animal Nursing Assistant course”.
Colin Taylor
Joint MD of Taylor Lane
Having left school with few qualifications but a strong determination to succeed, Colin returned to HCT to do an HNC and an HND in Business Studies, before starting his own company 25 years ago. Colin recognises the value of the Apprenticeship programme, which gives young people the opportunity to study but also to get out into the work place and get the practical experience they need to develop their skills.
“Apprenticeships are the future of the company - we need the young people to come along to push the company forward - without them we will just stand still. The building industry hit a depression in 80-90s creating a lack of skilled labour. It is very important to start educating youngsters and bring them back into the industry”
Steven Hughes
Welding - NVQ 2
Steven Hughes is an Apprentice at Taylor Lane. He is a Hereford man aged 25 and married with two small children. Steven went to a local school but came out without any GCSEs. Steven has worked since, but started at Taylor Lane in the timber section three years ago. He then moved into the steel shop, where it was suggested that he might like to do an apprenticeship and gain some qualifications. Steven took the advice and started his apprenticeship with the HCT Training Division. He has just passed level one Key Skills, which he has found particularly useful. He is currently working towards an NVQ Level 2 in Welding and intends to progress onto Level 3 next year. Steve is enjoying learning new skills whilst earning a living.
