The Foyer Federation Case Study

Sharon Playle undertook a Level 2 Business Admin apprenticeship with the London Learning Consortium while working at The Foyer Federation, an organisation who help disadvantaged young people transition to adulthood. We asked her a few questions about her time as an apprentice.

How did you hear about apprenticeships?

I didn't really know much about them. I thought they were just work experience programmes. However, my line manager explained everything to me, and it all sounded a lot better than I thought. 

How did you hear about the the London Learning Consortium apprenticeship programme?

Our Chief Executive told me about LLC and recommended I take the Business & Administration apprenticeship. I also did some research online and then had a meeting with somebody from LLC before signing up. 

What is your role at The Foyer Federation?

I'm an office assistant and receptionist. I answer the phones and do most of the admin work here. Me and my line manager work as a team to ensure the smooth running of the office. I'm also the Health & Safety officer and First Aider. 

What have you enjoyed the most about your training?

Having Anne Tanner and Catherine Flattery coming in every two weeks. I really like the routine and the fact that I can do the learning side while I am at work. They gave me a lot of support. If it wasn't for them, I would have been in this on my own. An apprenticeship is also a lot better than going to university, since it just wasn't for me and there are also no debts to worry about. 

What have you achieved?

Lots of stuff! I feel I am better at organising and prioritising my workload as well as being able to work under pressure. This is my first job role and my first step into working and I have learnt so much. I had no GCSEs before I started here, and now have a formal qualification that I got while working. 

How does it make you feel?

I feel really excited. This qualification will allow me a choice of where to go next in my career. 

What are your future plans?

I want to take the next step and start a Level 3 Business & Administration apprenticeship. 

Would you recommend the apprenticeship programme to your friends?

Yes, definitely. It is well worth doing; you just learn so much and develop your skills on the job. You also learn your employment rights and responsibilities and what you are entitled to.