National Apprenticeship Week 2017
We have caught up with Fairway Community Carer, Philip and Apprentice Finance Assistant, Shannon for National Apprenticeship Week 2017 to find out more about their progress and how they’re enjoying their apprenticeships!
Philip – Community Carer
The Fairway Journey
Prior to being employed by Fairway, I was unemployed. I had a hard time finding employment after being self-
employed for many years as a swimming coach. So first out the gate I would like express my gratitude to Fairway for allowing me to climbing over a major stumbling block.
Care work can be very challenging at times, due to the nature of the work. These challenges develop a greater level of compassion, and caring which would otherwise not be available without the opportunity given by Fairway.
I am currently undertaking my NVQ in Health and Social Care, this is a gold standard qualification in the industry. The NVQ provides a useful portal to gain additional knowledge, supporting your working experiences.
The Monday to Friday Work Experience
In the vast majority of the time caring is not work because I feel what flows from me is natural. Prior to working with Fairway I was looking after both my parents, who died from cancer within close proximity of each other. Fairway allows me to give back, into local community, some of the lessons I learnt with my parents.
For me experience at work is varied, because the individuals we look after, have both mental and physical challenges. Those same individuals give us the opportunity to share some of their milestones, like 90th birthdays.
Major achievements along the journey:
• Employee of the Year 2016
• Highly recognised by the service users as someone who is reliable and trustworthy
Shannon – Apprentice Finance Assistant
The Fairway Journey
Since joining Fairway on 4th July 2016, I have been able to achieve things I never thought possible. Since day 
one Fairway welcomed me with open arms and have provided me with support as I undertake my AAT qualification. I’ve gained so much confidence since starting work and I’m thoroughly enjoying my role.
I’m really enjoying my apprenticeship and I am now starting to transfer what I am learning at college, into my everyday work load such as posting payments and working out errors in Sage. This apprenticeship has given me the opportunity to work and use my skills, as well as learning something new and trying to get the best outcome I possibly can. I am now on track to complete my Level 2 and then hopefully move onto Level 3 and 4 to complete my AAT qualification.
The Monday to Friday Work Experience
• Post payments into Sage
• Produce and send out Training invoices
• Post purchase invoices
• Post Bank payments
• Maintain our Recommend a Friend scheme
• Add breaks to our Care for IT system
• Set up wage payments onto the Bank
• Screen telephone calls
• Post journals in Sage
• Credit Control
Major achievements along the journey:
• Passed my Bookkeeping exam achieving 87%
• Passed my Sage exam achieving 88%