Apprenticeship Week: Siara Sarwar

Hello, my name is Siara Sarwar and I work within the Teaching Centre as the Education & Events Administrator. My interest in working within a healthcare setting started when I was completing my Level 3 BTEC in Health & Social Care. This led me to starting my career, as a young apprentice in 2019.

What Apprenticeship are you currently studying and how are you finding it?

I have successfully completed my Level 3 Apprenticeship in Business & Administration. This has given me the opportunity to develop my skills whilst learning on the job. My apprenticeship has enhanced my communication and time management skills as I have learnt to manage my workload in a busy environment and been able to communicate with a wide range of people from staff to patients and visitors.

How has the apprenticeship supported your career development/progression? Your future career plans.

My apprenticeship has enabled me to gain a qualification as well as widen my skills set. I have progressed into a permanent role and been offered many opportunities to work on other projects to develop my skills further. I am now in good stead to seek new career opportunities.

What would you say to someone wondering if an apprenticeship is right for them/for their development?

I think the apprenticeship pathway is a great way to gain a qualification whilst working and learning on the job. There are apprenticeships available in various desired industries. It gives you an opportunity to showcase your skills and develop through hands on experience, with the hope of gaining a permanent position. Throughout your time as an apprentice you will be provided with professional support, both from your tutors and work colleagues.

Through apprenticeships you have more exposure to networking with a wide range of people, both internal and external. I found it very enjoyable having the ability to develop deeper working relationships with others.