Studying on the job

Catherine Arnold has recently started a university degree, funded as an apprenticeship.

‘When this came up, I jumped at the chance,’ said the sales account manager from Leeds. ‘I’ve been working since I was 18 and thought I had missed my chance to go to university.’

Catherine now spends 20% of her working week dedicated to her business-to-business sales course at London Metropolitan University and says she’s already applying what she’s learning in her day job.

‘I’m developing a greater understanding of sales, Royal Mail and myself as a person,’ she said. ‘The more I learn, the more I understand the reasons behind my activities, and the more I find myself managing my practices in a more effective way.

‘My university learnings often filter through to the wider team as we share our ways of working and find best practices. We learn from each other!’

Catherine said that her line manager has been really supportive: ‘Simon Topley has been really encouraging about my development,’ she said. ‘He has created a workplace environment where I feel safe to come to speak to him about any concerns I have.’

What advice would she give to other colleagues interested in an apprenticeship to support personal and career development? ‘Do it!’ said Catherine. ‘It’s a brilliant opportunity; you learn loads, meet new people and get the chance to earn while you learn. What do you have to lose?’

Apprenticeships are no longer just a first career step for young people. All colleagues can now upskill or re-train as an apprentice, regardless of their age and past qualifications. This follows changes to apprentices in England. For more information on how apprenticeships could benefit your personal and career development, please speak to your manager.