Apprenticeships provide people with an opportunity to develop skills in a supported environment and gain real life experiences that open up new and exciting career paths. And they provide great benefits for the business.

We currently have 49 apprentices. They’re working right across the business, from our trades teams, to customer service, HR, accounting, IT and more. 

Our apprenticeship scheme focuses on two programme types; one for upskilling and developing current employees, and one for recruiting local people to learn on the job. 

We know that it’s important to invest in our staff, as well as providing opportunities for new people who want to learn a trade or profession and build a bright future for themselves.

We spoke to two of our apprentices to find out more about their experiences with us.

Callie Kingsbury, an Apprentice Plumber, based in Basingstoke:

“I enjoy working at VIVID. I’m not treated differently because I’m an apprentice, I’m just one of the team which I really like.”

“Learning on the job is much better for me. I can understand so much more than by just reading a text book. And everyone is supportive and always ready to answer my questions.”

Daisy Peel, an Apprentice IT Administrator, based in Portsmouth:

“My apprenticeship has given me the confidence to carry myself. I’m getting real experience of how offices and businesses work.”

“I like that VIVID invests in its people and supports us. My manager wants me to be the best I can be.”

“I enjoy that every day is different and I’m learning new things. It’s always go, go, go! I’d like to stay in IT and will see what opportunities come next.”
 

Apprenticeships are an effective way to address skill gaps and future proof the business, developing skills where they’re needed most. And they allow us to upskill and revitalise our existing teams. This investment helps retain our people as they feel valued and have opportunities to develop. 

We spoke to Lisa Wakefield Jones, one of our Learning and Development Business Partners, to discuss the impact of the pandemic and how our apprenticeship programmes are developing:

“Whilst the pandemic has impacted our programmes, we responded quickly and creatively to ensure that learning opportunities weren’t lost. We moved a lot of the learning online, increased the number of check-ins, and kept our apprentices engaged with remote mentoring sessions and group activities.”

“We’re continually developing our programmes, offering more opportunities for new and existing employees. In 2020, we merged and redesigned two key programmes to upskill our workforce, producing a robust talent programme for our stars of the future. And we worked with the Chartered Institute of Housing to tailor our Level 3 programme to ensure that learners gain a supported and rounded view of the housing sector.”

“Completing an apprenticeship is by no means a walk in the park. Observing our apprentices’ perseverance and seeing them overcome challenges is really enjoyable. It’s fantastic when you can see someone really benefiting. And I feel privileged to share in those ‘a-ha’ moments when things come together for them.” 

You can find out more about our apprenticeship opportunities  on our Careers pages.