15th June 2023 A bridge to an apprenticeship

This Social Mobility Day we caught up with Sam*, one of our Bridge students who took part in our pre-apprenticeship programme which supports young people from low socio-economic backgrounds gain the skills and confidence to secure an apprenticeship.

Sam is now finishing his first year of his technology apprenticeship in the financial services sector. To celebrate his achievements and #SpeakMore about social mobility, this is his story.

“So far, the first year of my apprenticeship scheme has been an amazing experience, from everything to meeting new people and developing contacts, to learning numerous skills and qualities which were embodied in an important transitional phase of my career coming from high school and sixth form into my working career. These skills will be engrained into me as I progress through my career.”

How did the Bridge programme help you to secure your apprenticeship role?

“It massively helped me throughout all stages of the onboarding process, but excelled in helping me perfect my interview skills, including tips on how to make yourself standout, even if you have minimal work experience. We had many hours of interview practice in a friendly environment where everyone is willing to learn and progress your career.

“The programme played an integral role in helping me understand what employers were looking for.”

What does an apprenticeship opportunity offer young people?

“I am continually learning every single day, something I will never take for granted. As an apprentice you have so many things which you can learn, through numerous streams such as university, work, and any other personal research which you can do to further increase your human capital.”

To support students in their first year of work we offer a development grant to contribute to the costs of travel, lunch or office attire. We know that the barriers to social mobility continue to permeate for young people from low socio-economic backgrounds even when they’ve secured their dream job. Going out to lunch with colleagues or travelling at peak times is something those from more affluent backgrounds may take for granted.

“The bursary has massively helped me throughout this first year, most notably through going towards transport costs with having to buy train tickets to get to Manchester once a week to attend university.”

What expectations do you have for your second year?

“I am looking forward to going continuing the momentum in which I have gathered within the first year through to the second year, learning new qualities and skills which all began with the Bridge scheme, preparing me for this learning.

"Pairing this with getting more stuck in with the team and being more independent within some of the more complex things which our team faces as I become more knowledgeable and trusted to troubleshoot with more experience underneath my belt.”

All of us at The Talent Foundry wish Sam the best of luck as he progresses his career.

If you would like to provide a Bridge for young people from underserved backgrounds from school into your business or industry, speak to our Head of Programmes, Cate Smith at The Talent Foundry.

*Name has been changed.