I’ve worked at Certas Energy for two and a half years, looking after the continuous improvement teams for the business. My teams and I oversee companywide improvement projects, using Lean and 6 Sigma processes and methodologies to improve efficiency and remove variation. In my tenure, we’ve had a number of apprentices within the continuous improvement teams, and currently we have team members working through levels 3, 4, & 5 Continuous Improvement apprenticeships.
In my experience, the value provided through apprenticeships is clear to see. Our apprentices are able to gain valuable experience and knowledge which they can they apply directly to their day-to-day roles. In turn, the skills they build through their learning benefit the wider team through increased performance and the overall effectiveness of the Continuous Improvement Team.
Apprenticeships can also help our team members understand their value to the business, and how their role and the work they do contributes to the wider business vision, and supports the Continuous Improvement strategy at Certas Energy.
Apprenticeships are an excellent way to upskill a team within a working environment, are cost effective as they utilise the government levy, and they help support individuals’ professional and personal development in a balanced environment, through both on-the-job and classroom learning.
I’d definitely recommend apprenticeships to other heads of function/people managers, but it’s important to recognise, as a manager, the importance of engaging effectively with apprentices throughout their journey. Whether that’s making time to support their learning, monitoring/managing their progression, or helping them overcome any roadblocks, including balancing workloads, prioritizing tasks, or helping with problem solving by sharing knowledge and experiences.
If you are interested in a career at Certas Energy, either as an apprentice or in another capacity, don’t forget to review our jobs page available here.
