Lydia Hemans-Ney, Business Admin Apprentice at JB Leitch, tells us about her apprenticeship experience in this featured case study.
What is your job title?
My initial job title for my first apprenticeship was Business Administration Assistant but I then moved on to be a Real Estate Paralegal.
Why did you decide to do an apprenticeship?
Despite getting high results in my GCSEs, I knew I didn’t want to go to college but I wanted to continue to learn whilst gaining work experience. My siblings have also been apprentices and I saw it work out for them so I thought it would be a good route for myself.
What sort of activities did you do in your role whilst you were on the apprenticeship?
In my first role, my day to day tasks varied quite a lot. It went from sorting out travel arrangements, running reports for clients and staff, ordering marketing material to arranging and planning social events for clients. Now I am in the more legal side of the company and assist the team in preparing all new files and liaising with external solicitors.
What have you enjoyed most about your apprenticeship?
I enjoyed that sometimes it pushed me out of my comfort zone as it was quite different from school. Some parts were challenging which I found a good thing as I was then learning new things. I also enjoyed getting to know other apprentices in the company when we did training sessions.
How was your training with Damar?
My overall experience with Damar has been positive. I have managed to pass two apprenticeships within a good time frame. I had contact with Steve Logan on both of my apprenticeships and he was a big help and support on both.
What do you think your biggest achievement has been as an apprentice?
My biggest achievement has been the progression and relationships I’ve built within JB Leitch. Being an apprentice has given me the willingness to always learn so I never shied away from something a member of staff asked of me. I also enjoyed exceeding people expectations of an apprentice, as some people think they may not be capable of certain things. I was given opportunities to prove myself and grow.
What do you think you have contributed to your organisation during your apprenticeship?
I was able to contribute new working ideas and plan structures to my work which made things more efficient for the team.
What are your career plans now you’ve finish your apprenticeship?
Now I have finished this apprenticeship, I am planning to start something new in the coming months. I have had discussions with my manager about being put through a legal qualification in conveyancing.