Sara Roberts - Electoral Services Apprentice

Sara gained a distinction in her L3 Business Administrator Apprenticeship in 2020. Sara joined the council in April 2019, and she has worked extremely hard to gain the highest grade in her (EPA) End Point Apprenticeship. This is even more of a significant achievement given that she has achieved this during the current Covid-19 pandemic.

Sara has kindly answered a few questions on why she chose to complete her apprenticeship and how she feels she has developed throughout her learner journey.

Why did you decide to complete an apprenticeship?

“I saw it as a great opportunity to gain valuable experience of working within the council, and work towards a qualification at the same time.”

Please tell us your experience of being an apprentice?

“I have been able to learn new skills, work within a friendly team and enjoy the whole process. I would like to thank my team for their invaluable support and guidance throughout the course, and how they have welcomed me into the team.”

Has the apprenticeship helped you to progress into a permanent job within the Council?

“I am pleased to say that I have now been enrolled onto a Level 4 apprenticeship qualification.”

What do you feel were/are the advantages of completing an apprenticeship over other education/training programmes?

“Apprenticeships give you the opportunity to gain experience of the working environment, and at the same time gain a qualification. Working as part of the Elections Team, I have been able to become involved in many aspects of the department, and work with helpful and encouraging colleagues.”

Manager comments – Laura Noonan

“Sara has done so well to achieve a distinction, especially during the busiest election period on record last year and whilst being redeployed to support the Be Safe, Stay Kind Hub during the last few months. The work Sara completes on her course does add a lot of value to the council which also helps to improve our service to customers/stakeholders.”

Apprenticeship Coordinator comments - Dave Humpage

“This is a fantastic achievement by Sara, and she has been a real asset to her team. It is great that she is now progressing to a higher-level apprenticeship and highlights the fantastic work being completed by our apprentices”