#ScotAppWeek18 – Rachel Hunter – My Apprenticeship Story
When I was growing up my career aspirations were to be a primary school teacher, this is all I ever wanted to be. I received a conditional offer for Primary Teaching at Moray House University in Edinburgh with the condition that I got an A at Higher English, but I failed. This was the end of the world. I was unsure of what career path to take next. I had applied for college as well as university, just in case, and it turned out to be a good job that I did!
I started college in August 2014 but did not enjoy it. I read on Facebook that Waverley Housing were recruiting for an administrative apprentice and thought what a great opportunity so I applied and was successful. The apprentice hip was great financially; it allowed me to gain knowledge and earn money at the same time.
Whilst undertaking my apprenticeship, I was mentored by a representative from Borders College who visited me regularly and collected my work for marking. I collated a portfolio of my work and this was then, I had eight topics to complete and Waverley allowed me to do these units during working hours so I was never required to use my own time.
I successfully completed my apprenticeship and was offered a full time post with Waverley. I have now progressed to the role of Housing Assistant and have completed my Chartered Institute of Housing level 3 Certificate in Housing qualification. In my role I assist the Housing Officer in managing rent arrears, anti-social behaviour and all other housing related aspects. This is something I really enjoy and feel I have now found ‘the right job for me’.
The apprenticeship benefited me as it allowed me to develop my skills and I have gained lots of experience over my 3 years at Waverley Housing and can definitely say that I have been given great opportunities so far.
I was entered into the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) Apprentice of the Year awards and came 3rd in Scotland. When Waverley won the SME Employer of the Year awards in 2015 I was lucky enough to be asked to attend the awards ceremony and really enjoyed the experience.
I hope that one day I will progress to becoming a Housing Officer and I will continue to develop myself and gain as much knowledge and skills as I can – who knows I might even become Housing Services Manager!
