A St Andrew’s apprentice has spoken about how “lucky and fulfilled” she feels about having the opportunity to achieve her qualification with the charity.

To mark National Apprenticeship Week, which started on Monday, February 7, Kat Chatt has chosen to share her experience of progressing through the organisation.

Currently an Employee Relations Assistant she studied for her Level 3 HR Support throughout the pandemic and achieved her qualification towards the end of 2021.  

Kat said: “I have always enjoyed the learning process and feel very lucky and fufilled to be able to have completed an apprenticeship programme alongside my full-time role at St Andrew’s. It’s great that we have access to these initiatives.”

Having enjoyed the process so much, Kat is continuing to progress throughout the charity and is about to start her Level 5 HR Consultant Apprenticeship.

She said: “I decided to continue with an apprenticeship because I have discovered that I love to keep learning. It also allows me to provide the best support I can in my role.

“I would encourage anyone that is interested in challenging themselves to get in touch with the St Andrew’s Apprenticeship team – it also helps that they’re very supportive too!”

Sue Solomons, Apprenticeship Team Leader, said: “Apprenticeships can support you in your career development at St Andrew's Healthcare. There is no upper age limit and essentially apprenticeships are available for anyone who needs to learn significant skills related to a job, including those who already have qualifications.

“We’re very proud of Kat and all that she has achieved, our apprenticeships are open to existing permanent members of staff. Apprenticeships are available in hundreds of occupations and range from level 2 (GCSE equivalent) up to Level 7 (master’s degree, MBA, MSc).

“We have a range of apprenticeship programmes here at St Andrew's, so in the first instance speak to your line manager about your career progression.”

For anyone who would like more information, contact apprenticeships@standrew.co.uk or click here.