It's Scottish Apprenticeship Week

This week we shine a spotlight on our apprentices north of the Border, to celebrate Scottish Apprenticeship Week. As part of Our Social Promise, we are committed to creating opportunities for everyone to thrive – apprenticeships at all levels, provide routes for career progression, as well as learning and development. 

We asked some of our apprentices what advice they would give to anyone considering starting an apprenticeship.

Chloe Cornfoot, Apprentice Chef, Levy at SEC

I have so far learnt so much from it - not only cheffing skills, but also people and communication skills.

I’m not a confident person, but from being on the apprenticeship and doing competitions I have gained so much more confidence. The Compass apprenticeship programme is an amazing opportunity to take and I would push more people to get involved with it. 

Claire McHardy, General Manager for Levy at EICC

My advice is to go for it.  They’re great for building your wider knowledge of the business and making connections. With an apprenticeship, you’re constantly learning on the job. Everyone learns in different ways, so, I'd say for those who learn better through doing, an apprenticeship is so beneficial.

Matthew Benfold, Apprentice Chef for Levy at EICC

Do it! Within one year of my apprenticeship, I’ve gained so much more of an understanding of the hospitality industry and how to work as a team. My apprenticeship has presented many opportunities for me to develop my existing skills as well as learning new ones. In this time, I have been able to work out what I want to do in my future and what I want to achieve.

Mark MacDonald, Lead Steward, ESS Energy

I would say be confident in your abilities. Set goals and targets on what you want to achieve and speak to your line manager - they are there to support you and will be happy to be a mentor throughout your apprenticeship.