Case studies

Pamela Crehan, Level 3 Healthcare Support Diploma at the Crewe Campus

Background:

Having worked as a healthcare assistant, Pamela knew it was an industry that she wanted to progress her career in, which is why she decided to enrol on her Level 3 Healthcare Support Diploma at Cheshire College to advance and learn new skills. Her ultimate goal was to go on to university and study to be a nurse, something that she may not have been able to achieve without her apprenticeship.

Pamela’s story:

“I knew a lot about healthcare in the hospital before I started the programme from my years working on site, however I learnt so much academically through the apprenticeship” says Pamela. She said: “My employer funded my apprenticeship, so I decided to take the opportunity to better my knowledge and increase my job prospects. My assessor was great; she was always available and offered me support regularly. It was comforting to know that she was only a phone call away and there to help me out if I ever needed it.”

Once completing and passing her course with flying colours, Pamela gained a place at Liverpool John Moores University to study a nursing degree.

James Smith, Level 3 Leadership and supervisor and CMI at the Ellesmere Port Campus

Background:

James took on his apprenticeship through his employer and partner of the College, Encirc Glass, as a means to grow his skills and help with career progression.

James’s story:

“I was happy that Encirc partnered with the college to provide training and courses. I agreed with my employer that my apprenticeship would take up 20% of my working week and that has been spent at college, which is a great environment to learn in. Some of the stuff I have learned will be valuable for any future promotions and responsibility.”

James is looking forward to his future and utilising his new skills to manage people and day to day situations.

For more information about apprenticeship courses with Cheshire College South & West, contact apprenticeships@ccsw.ac.uk