AS PART of National Apprenticeship Week, the Telegraph & Argus is shining a light on the stories of those who have benefited from an apprenticeship with a daily Q&A, up to and including Friday.

Name: Aleena Gul

Job Title Administrative Assistant

Employer: Bradford Council

Apprenticeship Standard and Level: Business administration Level 2 (Currently doing Level 3)

Why did you choose an Apprenticeship?

I had secured a place at university but wanted to go down a different avenue and explore a different path which allowed me to come across apprenticeships. I didn’t know much about it but knew it was another option to develop and earn a qualification. I had to do some research about it and decided it was a path I wanted to go down. I like the idea that you are able to work, get paid for it and earn a qualification at the end

What has been the most rewarding part of your apprenticeship so far?

Gaining the qualification / meeting new people through training sessions / getting along and working with tutors to help with completing my units. The best thing about doing an apprenticeship is being able to work in a normal job and still be able to obtain a qualification and earn at the same time. it’s a great way to develop and strengthen all your skills. It allows you to meet new people and learn things that you wouldn’t know without working/ having an apprenticeship.

What have you taken from the apprenticeship so far?

I have been able to develop all of my skills. I have been able to gain a qualification which I can use in the future to help me.

How have you progressed or plan to progress following your apprenticeship (eg permanent position, further study/apprenticeship/promotion etc)? I have secured a permanent position within the council after completing my Level 2. I am currently working on Level 3 apprenticeship. I found the level 2 apprenticeship very rewarding and found it much easier because of the dedicated tutors which helped me throughout my qualification.

Would you recommend an Apprenticeship to others? Please explain why

Yes, I would recommend an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship is a great way to develop your interpersonal skills and helps you to get on the employment ladder which allows you to move up in an organisation to where you want to be. If you would like to be employed the experience gained from an apprenticeship will help you to get a job as you will be able to refer back to the experience you gained from your apprenticeship. An apprenticeship has definitely increased my confidence and allowed me to communicate more effectively with peers and colleagues.

Any additional comments

Everyone has definitely helped me in completing my apprenticeship as they are dedicated in helping you and support you whenever you need it.