Blakemore Colleagues Celebrate Apprenticeship Success

August 26, 2022

Five A.F. Blakemore colleagues who have completed an apprenticeship with the business attended a graduation ceremony at Stafford County Showground this summer.

Customer Services Clerk Stephanie Hodgkiss, SPAR Bishops Castle Trainee Manager Joe Dyson, Customer Services Clerk Kerris Rex, Customer Services Clerk Natalie Horton and SPAR Intake Supervisor Karen Wright (pictured left to right) all completed apprenticeships in retail or customer service during the past two years.

Currently, 38 colleagues across A.F. Blakemore are undertaking an apprenticeship with the company, in subjects such as accounts, business admin, customer service, hospitality, retail, warehouse and management.

Learning & Development Officer Michelle Bramhall commented: “Congratulations to everyone who has successfully completed an apprenticeship – especially during the coronavirus pandemic.

“Courses like this are key to colleagues’ personal and professional development as well as bringing new skills into the workplace.

“I’d encourage all colleagues to find out more about apprenticeships. There is an apprenticeship for everyone, no matter what your job role is.”

Stephanie, who completed a Customer Service Specialist Level 3 apprenticeship, commented: “I applied for an apprenticeship after seeing fellow colleagues completing courses. I’m always looking for a new challenge and to enhance my skills however I can. I knew this was something I would be interested in undertaking, despite not completing any further qualifications since leaving university seven years prior.

“Having worked in customer service across retail and in the logistics and distribution sector for the past 15 years, I didn’t think there were any further skills I could learn. However, this course has enhanced my skills greatly and has even given me the confidence to try and implement change within the processes we follow within our department.

“The qualification is also a great addition to my CV, and I have no doubt it will aid me when trying to further my career.

“I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship to anyone. I am so glad I took on the challenge, and seeing my end result was the cherry on the cake! I’ve always struggled with my self-confidence, and this apprenticeship has definitely changed my opinion of what I believe I’m capable of.”

Please email L&DEnquiries@afblakemore.co.uk if you would like to find out more about apprenticeship opportunities or enquire about taking on an apprentice in your team. 

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