Apprenticeship Coach Review

I am an apprenticeship coach for Co-op Funeralcare which means that I train, coach and mentor students within the business to achieve their funeral industry recognised apprenticeships at levels 2 and 3. On a daily basis I will provide learning support to identified individuals, mark submissions of their apprenticeship work, deliver interactive online workshops, hold professional discussions, tutorials and progress reviews. As well as dealing with safeguarding, wellbeing, British Values especially around mutual respect and tolerance, individual liberty as well as equality and diversity. The majority of my interactions are internal with my students and their line managers, as I am responsible for ensuring they progress through their apprenticeships in a timely manner and achieve the best results possible at End Point Assessment. I will occasionally deal with external providers and work on projects with colleagues within the wider Learning and Development team.

During the first year of my apprenticeship programme I have attended several study blocks, both in person and online in order to gain my level 4 element of my degree; I have also joined a networking group within the Co-op to gain a greater understanding of different roles within the organisation. During this time I improved my academic writing, especially with report writing, I have learned how to reference and manage my time better. I have developed existing skills in learning and development, self-awareness, coaching & mentoring, all of which has helped me in my role and enriched my students learning. I have learned new skills in project management, marketing, business analysis and finance.

I am enjoying the programme, it is very challenging but I knew that would be the case - the cohort I am in varies in experience and background despite all working for the Co-op; this definitely helps with networking and an improved understanding of the business as a whole as it is very diverse in its operations and this is opening my eyes to more knowledge and understanding which is making me hungry to learn more.

My programme is extremely structured with regards to study blocks, dates set well in advance and shared by the provider. Pre-work was provided to help us get ready at the start, then study blocks to launch our learning (some have been face to face others online), before going to apply it. It is a mix of blended (70-20-10) learning. Support is readily available from both my line manager and my personal tutor with regards to ensuring I have the time I need to work on my studying and the back up of 1-1s to discuss elements of the programme I am struggling with - course tutors are also available after study blocks to answer questions.

100% support - my line manager is watching my work caseload carefully to ensure that I don't become overloaded whilst on my apprenticeship programme. We have monthly 1-1s and if I need additional assistance then I just need to book extra time with him. I also have access to additional support through the businesses Employee Assistance Programme which I have taken up. I am also being given opportunities to learn in areas that I wouldn't normally be able to take up.

The support from my personal tutor has been fabulous, we catch up on a regular basis, and I can approach her with any issues I have along the way. The lead tutor has also been easy to approach when the course tutor has not be available and the situation that I have brought to her attention has been resolved immediately. Course tutors have also been on hand to help with assignments when necessary and their feedback following submissions has been easy to understand. I am enjoying the programme even though it has been challenging.

I have been able to share my learnings with my students thus enriching their learning; I am more confident with my knowledge and sharing this with my colleagues who have been very supportive also, therefore I am putting the theory that I am learning into practice and getting a greater understanding of the wider business.

Due to Covid, and the fact that I am field based and not in Head Office there is limited opportunity to get involved in social events, however the business is very good at working virtually partly imposed through the pandemic and as a result I very much feel part of the business. I am also a member of CIPD and CMI which means I have access to professional networks, again albeit virtually. I am also involved in the local community and voluntary initiatives where I live, so overall considering the pandemic I believe I am in a good place with activities outside of work as well as in.

Yes

The Co-op cares, they care about you as an employee and provide the sort of support anyone might need, they also care about the environment and are innovative in what they do... they could do better about shouting about the good things that they do so that more people understand their values, ethics and working conditions. They also give everyone the opportunity to learn which is not the case in some organisations I have worked for in the past.

Do your research about the Co-op before you apply - there are lots of different Co-ops across the country and the world as it is a way of doing business. Ensure that you are comfortable using computers, but don't be afraid to just walk in the door of your local food store or funeral home, anyone and everyone is happy to support you in your application. Prepare for interviews they will be competency and strength based, with the belief that if you have natural strengths, especially with customer care, then you can easily learn how to complete the tasks therefore previous experience isn't always necessary especially for team member roles.