Matthew Connell - My journey as an apprentice at Key Training

Once I completed Sixth Form I was eager to get into a working environment and for me the best way to do so was using an apprenticeship. Not long after applying for different roles on the apprenticeship website I was invited in for a recruitment day at Key Training. Only a few days later I successfully gained an interview for an admin post quite close to home. Unfortunately, I just missed out on this position however Key Training gave me constructive feedback which would help me with future interviews. I then received a phone call from Natalie discussing a role as a training apprentice within Key Training which sounded great. I attended an interview at Key a couple of days later and was told I had the job soon after.  Throughout my first few months I gained plenty of information on how the industry operates and the apprenticeship allowed me to build upon many of my confidence.

Just one year later I completed my Business Admin Level 2 Apprenticeship and I was starting my Business Admin Level 3 NVQ. As part of my progression I would be dealing with Traineeships and working as a Trainee Training Consultant. This gave me more responsibility and allowed me to support learners within the workplace which was something that I really enjoyed.

After completing my Business Admin Level 3 NVQ I was then offered a full-time position within the Admin Department at Key Training. This was challenging at first as there was so much information to take in however the training that I received from colleagues allowed me to understand all aspects of the role.

18 Months later a post became available within the Recruitment Department at Key. Although I didn’t have much Recruitment experience this was something that I was very interested in. Not long after applying I was invited for an interview and told I had the job soon after. There was a lot of information to take in at first however the training/ support that I received really helped. I am always challenging myself to gain more information and I am well supported by others around me to do this.

3 years later, I have since progressed into a Senior Recruitment & Skills Specialist position whilst also completing a Team Leading programme to support my development. This has taught me new skills and allowed me to challenge myself whilst supporting, coaching, and dealing with difficult situations.

In August, it will mark my eighth year at Key Training. I have loved every second of my journey and I cannot thank Key Training enough for the help and support that they have given me throughout.

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