Our Apprentices Graduate – Congratulations!

The NVQ Level 4 in Retail Management has been completed over the last 2 years in parallel to my role as a Store Manager. The course contains some great context whilst giving good direction and balance for all on the course. The in-depth knowledge based criteria allowed me to better understand all areas of the course and implement these focus areas in my day to day role.

The course was undertaken during times without the current climate of COVID-19, these last few months have meant changing the way we work and interact with colleagues and associates, none more so during the critical final months of completing the NVQ. From the group’s course’s, meeting with the tutor and ultimately completing the end point assessment, the focus has been on new ways of working together to be capable and able to complete the NVQ using new forms of communication. This has been achieved by all and I’m proud to say even with the challenges that 2020 has delivered the course has been completed by myself with the help of colleagues and associates, truly a team effort by all.

During lockdown I was furloughed which gave me the opportunity to use my time to complete my final assignments. Although we weren’t able to meet tutors face to face, I was able to skype, email or telephone them if needed. The tutors adapted to the current situation very quickly, and I was able to meet the criteria of the assignments through both written and speaking assessments. The information that I have learnt during my training I will now be able to put into practice and feel more confident within my role.

I’d say I found the L2 apprenticeship coursework a mix of different things. During the first month of lockdown I was just finishing up my course, I was on furlough just before I had finished my apprenticeship which I think was very handy as I had a lot of time to go through my work. I had time to get everything together and get it marked up, I also had time to re-read everything. Some of my coursework was hard, some of it was very self-explanatory. At times I would struggle but my nursery management team would always lead me in the right direction. My tutor from Hawk training was lovely and very nice to work with for the year I was doing the apprenticeship, she helped me through the coursework and it would be great to see her every month to catch up on any coursework I wasn’t able to complete. The course has had its ups and downs but there is nothing I can’t push through!

Submitted by Store Manager, Philip Johnson.

Matthew worked extremely hard to fit in his course studies and prepare his business plan , whilst working under the difficult circumstances that we encountered during the Covid-19 lockdown period. The support he received was on a different level as he was unable to have face to face meetings with his tutor. Despite these obstacles Matthew enjoyed the course which bought home to him how much he has grown in his role as team manager, but also encouraged him to look at some areas of the business with a different approach, in particular his knowledge of the financial side of the business has grown significantly .

He is very pleased to have passed with a distinction and we are very proud of him here at Bicester Food store. 😊

Submitted by Deputy Manager, Astra Moir

Mariah found it ok but at times lost motivation because of everything that was happening, and it helped having the additional time to complete work. The course itself was really good and had the support that was needed to complete assignments. Everyone was really helpful especially the tutor, Rachel. With questions well worded and easy to understand, the course helped Mariah in her role by gaining more knowledge in certain areas by coming up with new ideas to support children develop in different ways. Also making her more confident when planning activities.

Mariah has shown outstanding dedication to her course and her confidence has flourished since beginning her apprenticeship. We are excited to have Mariah qualify as a level 3 practitioner and look forward to her future childcare journey.

Submitted by Sarah Crossland, Nursery Manager

When Leanne first started the course, she will admit she did struggle at first and put up some walls as she felt a little overwhelmed. But with support and guidance to develop her understanding of the requirement and how to lay out work she really began to enjoy the course and see the benefits.

Leanne has gained more knowledge and understanding of different stages of development which in turn has aided her confidence to grow when talking to parents and answering questions they may have.

Leanne was in the final stages of her course when lockdown took place and used this time to complete work every day. With the support of her tutor this made Leanne determined to return to nursery qualified.

Submitted by Mina Patel, Senior Nursery Manager at Maidavale Nursery

Lisa passed her Level 3 in Team Leading with a distinction. She worked so hard to ensure she got the best grade! Lisa is our 3^rd in-charge at Maidavale nursery; she consistently applied her knowledge to her role within the nursery and supported colleagues and parents on a day to day basis. Lisa studied throughout whilst she was working fulltime, which shows her passion and dedication in learning and supporting others. Throughout the Covid-19 period, Lisa emphasised her excellent management skills which she learnt during her course and off the job learning, to ensure she was leading a positive and enthusiastic team, despite the current situation. At times, Lisa would struggle with the content and with deadlines due to work and personal commitments; however, she never gave up! She was always open and honest with her line managers and was not shy to ask for help!

WE are so proud of Lisa and she is an asset to the nursery and Midcounties!

Submitted by Mina Patel, Senior Nursery Manager at Maidavale Nursery

Francesca arrived at the nursery as a volunteer whilst studying for her level 2 externally. From the first day, we knew she was an excellent practitioner. Francesca then was employed by the society and we were eager for her to complete her level 3. Francesca has characteristics which are of an outstanding practitioner and her partnership with parents is also outstanding. Francesca’s knowledge has really advanced whilst studying for her level 3 in Childcare. Francesca has understood the additional needs of children further and also gained understanding on how to manage behaviour effectively. Francesca found the pandemic at a time where she could focus on the course, and try to reflect on her practice to be the best support to the children and families who needed us! Francesca is a fantastic practitioner who we are so proud of.