A WESTBURY teenager is finding that his apprenticeship with local solicitors Middleton & Upsall LLP is providing him with the perfect start to his career.
During his A-level studies at Matravers School in Westbury, Tom Skidmore was considering applying for university. But he decided to take a year out and use it to develop his skills with an apprenticeship, which helps him achieve his NVQ level 2 in business administration. It is a decision he does not regret.
Tom, who is now 19, explains, “I was thinking about going straight to university but decided not to. I wanted a gap year, but didn’t want to waste it. It seemed the best option was to get experience and a qualification at the same time.”
Apprenticeships are work-based programmes that combine practical training with study. Apprentices gain skills from working alongside experienced staff, earn a wage, and work towards a qualification at the same time. Tom works in Westbury five days a week, with a monthly assesment and additional studies for his NVQ.
After completing his A-levels in business studies, travel and tourism, and IT, Tom started his apprenticeship at Middleton & Upsall LLP’s Warminster branch before moving to the Westbury office. His tasks there can include anything and everything from manning reception to troubleshooting IT problems. However, he says the best part of the job is helping with the firm’s marketing, which has involved designing adverts and A-boards.
Tom said, “I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship. It’s been great for me, I enjoy being here and I think I’ve built up a lot of confidence. On my first day I barely spoke!”
After his apprenticeship ends, Tom hopes to study a business management course at Bath Spa University, and is sure the apprenticeship will enhance his application.
The employer’s
perspective
When Tom joined Middleton & Upsall LLP, he was the first apprentice at the firm. They were so pleased with his work that they have now taken on a second apprentice, Annaliese Cleverley, who works in the finance department at their Warminster office. Practice manager Stephanie White, who is supervising the apprentices, says they now don’t know what they would do without them! The firm intends to take on more apprentices once Tom and Annaliese finish their placements.
Stephanie said, “We thought we’d give it a go, although we were a bit apprehensive. But there is quite a rigorous selection process, so you do get a feel for them before you take them on.
“I do feel for young people like them. I just wanted to give them a chance. It’s catch 22; they can’t get a job because they haven’t got experience, but they can’t get experience without a job.
“They’re like little diamonds, they’ve fitted right in and are fantastic. They are both really willing and so useful to have around. I think it’s a really good scheme, and it’s been really worthwhile for us.”
The apprenticeship was set up through JHP Training apprenticeships, which can be found at www. jhpapprenticeships. com.
Middleton & Upsall LLP’s Westbury office is located in the Old Town Hall in the Market Place. You can find out more about the firm at www. mulaw.co.uk or contact them on 01373 865577.
Pictured: Tom and Stephanie outside the Westbury offices.
