Apprentice shop assistant Review

My role on a day-to-day basis involved working alongside customers to help them with their shopping needs. If they were unable to find a particular item in the store then it would be my responsibility to locate the items for them. Also, I would assist my colleagues with the work they were carrying out, for example helping them to put our stock on the shelves.

My people skills have improved as I was in regular contact with members of the public. This also made me more confident when I knew i could handle their problems with ease. My IT skills have improved as I was taught how to use new pieces of technology and software that was previously unfamiliar to me.

The programme was much better than I expected and I enjoyed it a lot, I wish I could start it all over again. There were days in which I struggled but looking back on it this wouldn't change my view of the apprenticeship as it only allowed me to face different challenges, which I enjoy.

Everything was laid out clearly for me so I knew where I was currently in the programme, what I was aiming for and where my employers wanted me to be. The programme was organised especially when it came to training as I would go to college once a week and all the tasks I needed to do where displayed to me in a very manageable way.

As I had two line managers and various other colleagues above me, I receive plenty of support. Everyone was friendly to me and understanding since the beginning. If I had any concerns I could speak to my boss and they would either deal with the issue if I was unable to or advice me through how to overcome it myself.

They gave me a lot of support and clearly went out of their way for my own success. They were available either by email or phone whenever I needed them. In addition to that they worked closely with me at college to make sure I was able to complete the course work and observations to the best of my ability.

I wouldn't be able to do the job I do without the qualification because the qualification gives you the information you need to know to be able to work in this type of environment. Also it helps to put into perspective the amount of work you need to do to make a success out of this.

We have done various charity events in which we play sports or do fundraising. These are always fun to get involved with. On top of that we meet up for social events like Christmas and New Years. On my programme I got to experience a team building event in which we went off site for the day, this is something I would defiantly recommend doing if you get the chance.

Yes

The work isn't too challenging that you become stressed but there are still challenges involved that keep you on your toes. You get various different benefits like bonuses at certain periods of the year as well as store discount (something that my family really enjoyed). Lastly, the college were supportive and helped me to get to where I am now.

Trust in your own abilities because I at first thought I wasn't capable of doing the job but through the training they provide I realised how successful I could in fact be. Don't expect to be bored at work as well because no two days are the same. Just go for it!