Another successful apprenticeship, another satisfied learner

When Tamara Williams left school at the age of twelve the idea that, by the age of eighteen, she would be working at a world-class university while she studied for a qualification may have seemed unbelievable, but with the help of WAES this is exactly what she was able to achieve.

Recommended for an apprenticeship, Tamara was able to secure a position at London School of Economics (LSE) in their Estates division alongside the option of studying with a number of different colleges in Westminster. She chose WAES due to its reputation for adult learning and enrolled on functional skills courses in Maths, English and IT.

“School was difficult for me– but I would really recommend an apprenticeship to others. I can work and study at the same time.”

The experience of an apprenticeship is something that has changed Tamara’s outlook on education, allowing her to work towards a Level 2 Certificate in Business Administration. “School was difficult for me– but I would really recommend an apprenticeship to others. I can work and study at the same time.”

WAES provides Tamara with regular face-to-face tuition. She also uses BKSB, an online interface, to keep track of her progress and can email her tutor, Gillian, whenever she needs help. “I can contact Gillian whenever I have questions and she sends me links. I feel really well supported by those around me.”

"We wanted to give a young person from the local community an opportunity to gain work experience within a world class university"

With her eagerness to learn, Tamara has settled in well to her post at LSE. “We wanted to give a young person from the local community an opportunity to gain work experience within a world class university,” says Julian Robinson, Director of Estates at LSE. “It has been rewarding to see Tamara develop new skills and gain confidence whilst working with us.”

The benefits of her apprenticeship are making themselves felt in many ways. As well as gaining valuable experience, Tamara is able to build on her passion for soul music. “I can afford the things I need to be able to build my home studio, which I’m really happy about. Since I didn’t enjoy my education at school it’s interesting that I’ve found myself working in a prestigious educational establishment.”

Smart businesses employ apprentices. Find out more how WAES can help your business. Call 020 7641 8186 or e-mail workandlearn@waes.ac.uk

View apprenticeship and job vacancies at WAES.