Billy Simpson found his experience on the NECS100 programme allowed him to develop skills in the workplace, whilst also gaining a qualification and a role as Business Development Project Co-ordinator.
“From leaving school after finishing my GCSEs, I started a Business Administration course at college, as I had always had an interest in business and knew it would be an industry I would enjoy. I’d done a variety of part time jobs but lacked the necessary skills and experience to gain full time employment in a business administration role. After seeing the NECS100 programme advertising a Business Administration apprenticeship position, I decided to apply, as this would give me the on-the-job training and experience I was looking for.
“In January 2021, I joined NECS’ Business Development Team as a Business Development Administration Apprentice. Over the course of my apprenticeship, I have been fortunate to get involved in multiple areas of the team and gain skills which I would not have been able to studying in college. As a result of the apprenticeship, I’ve been able to develop my interpersonal skills and have gained valuable industry knowledge.
“The NECS100 programme allowed me to develop my skills in the workplace whilst also gaining a qualification. Being part of a college course studying for a level 3 NVQ in Business Administration whilst also working, meant I was able to apply my learning in a real working environment. The programme offers a variety of training initiatives (internal and external) and allocates you a mentor.
“After only 18 months into my position as an apprentice, a more senior position became available within the Business Development Team which I was successful in securing. I’ve now been in post for 6 months as a Business Development Project Co-ordinator and continue to develop my skills and be a valued member of the team. My mentor has supported me from being apprentice, all the way through to my new role, which has been invaluable.
“The training and support I received throughout my apprenticeship contract are undeniably the reason I am able to fulfil my current role with confidence and to a high quality. Seeing how other colleagues within the organisation have gotten to where they are, means I am now looking at options of further training and qualifications to progress my career within NECS.
“The highlight of joining the NECS100 programme has undeniably been the people. Throughout my journey, I have been blessed with a management team who have allowed me to get involved in all aspects of the business. In doing this I have gained knowledge which cannot be taught. Without such a supportive team, I can say with absolute confidence I would not be where I am today.
“I also award I won the ‘Rising Star of the year’ award from Derwentside College, after being nominated by my managers during my apprenticeship in 2022. Not only was the award a great achievement, but it also showed me that both my colleagues and my line manager recognised my true potential and the effort that I was putting into my work.”
Find out more about the NECS100 programme or email necsu.necs100@nhs.net