Distinction Result for Skills Group Apprentice

Olivia Pritchard is celebrating after achieving a Distinction in her Business Administration apprenticeship through Skills Group and securing a permanent position at the company.

Skills Group apprentice, Olivia Pritchard, who is also working for the organisation, has achieved a coveted Distinction result in her Level 3 Business Administrator apprenticeship. Olivia underwent the new End Point Assessment (EPA) which is designed to test key industry knowledge, skills and behaviours, as part of the Apprenticeship Standards that are being rolled out nationally.

For the Level 3 Business Administrator Apprenticeship, Olivia had to complete three separate assessment modules, including a multiple choice test, a portfolio interview which asked Olivia to explain her coursework in detail, and a presentation around a 6 month project. For the project, Olivia took charge of the Breakfast Club at Skills Group – an initiative to give all its Plymouth learners free breakfast on site. Through efficient planning, Olivia helped to cut costs and reduce wastage without compromising on the quality of the breakfast.

Skills Group is an Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ provider of Apprenticeships and Full-Time Courses, and one of the largest independent training providers in the country, working with top local employers. Olivia will now continue to work with the organisation as a Business Administrator.

Olivia says: “I’m overjoyed with my result as it recognises my hard work and the team’s support. I can’t thank Skills Group enough for the opportunity and look forward to my future here”.

Mandy Kerslake, Apprenticeship Manger and Employer Engagement, at Skills Group comments, “I am delighted by Olivia’s success; she is an asset to Skills Group. The Distinction reflects her hard work and the commitment of our team in supporting Olivia throughout the new assessment process. Apprenticeships provide a fantastic platform for youngsters or career changers to launch their career, offering the chance to gain nationally recognised qualifications whilst earning a salary and gaining industry leading training. We look forward to watching and helping Olivia to grow in her profession.”

Pictured (Left to Right): Mandy Kerslake, Apprenticeship Manager & Employer Engagement at Skills Group, and Olivia Pritchard

I just wanted to say the biggest thank you to Vanessa, my trainer. You have made my journey so much easier, I don’t know what I would have done without you. You have been amazing and helped me to achieve my qualification. You’ve guided me through every step of the way, I really appreciate it, Vanessa, you have been my rock.

Katie Shorland, Level 2 Hairdressing

I always struggled in school as I wasn’t very academic, so knew learning on the job would be a better option for me. I would find it difficult to get up for 9am but now I wake up and look forward to my day. I wanted to try a hair apprenticeship as I’ve always been interested in hairdressing, and by the end of the first week, I already loved it!

Jaimee Benson, Level 2 Hairdressing

I have developed a range of new skills through work including the technical, industry skills required for the job, to personal development such as ensuring I am always on time. The biggest change since leaving school is adjusting to the independence you gain from earning a salary. My advice to anyone thinking of doing an apprenticeship would be find what you like doing, and go for it!

Will Birch, Level 2 Bricklaying

Since starting the apprenticeship, I’ve become far more confident. In a classroom, you only interact with your classmates, but through working you develop your people skills as you interact with customers on a daily basis. At school, you are closely monitored and parented, however I am now more independent and feel grown up

Sam Collard, Level 2 Light Vehicle and Maintenance Repair

The most important thing I’ve learnt since leaving school is that there are other routes to success than just academia. I failed my GCSEs, as I never suited the school environment. Now though, I’m really enjoying my apprenticeship as I’ve discovered I learn more through hands-on practice.

Ben Freeman, Level 2 Carpentry

I would just like to thank you and your team for all the amazing work they do, you have provided me with the most invaluable experience which has helped to pave the way of my future. The work you do for young people is incredible!

Luke Kowalski, Teaching Assistant and former apprentice at Sir Robert Gefferys School