Team Leader/Supervisor Level 3,
Apprentice of the Year 2024
We are delighted to announce that Melanie White of Watkin Jones Group has won
our Apprentice of the Year Award for 2024.
Melanie works in a fast-paced environment as a
Customer Care Co-ordinator for housebuilder, Watkin Jones Group and is responsible
for ensuring homeowners are happy with their new property. With seven years of experience at Watkin Jones,
Melanie embarked on an apprenticeship to further her skills and career, a
decision that culminated in her promotion to Senior Coordinator.
‘I was unsure about enrolling on the
programme at first, being the oldest one on the cohort made me feel that this
was a little beyond me and my capabilities, and I should leave this type of
thing to the “young ones”.’
‘I’m glad to say I was wrong about
that! Part of my apprehension was sitting the functional skills. I passed my
English but at one stage I even thought about giving up my apprenticeship
because I thought I wouldn’t pass the maths. My mentor and Jim, my Intec Tutor, would
never have let me do that, they believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself,
through their guidance, advice, encouragement, plus buckets of tears(mine!),
worry, stress and a LOT of hard work and dedication, I passed (on my first try
too.)!’
Her manager and mentor, Melissa, has seen a real
change in her. ‘Mel wasn’t sure she should participate in the course as she
hadn’t studied in a long time. She has worked hard and is smashing it. It’s
been great to see her blossom and she is a supportive member of the cohort. As
well as her promotion, Mel has taken a leading role in our Wellbeing Panel for
Menopause Awareness Week’.
‘As a woman of a certain age, I have experienced some
difficult peri-menopausal symptoms which I have learnt to manage. To help bring
a voice to this subject, I recently took part as a panel member and guest
speaker for our first ever live event broadcast to the whole company. This was
the first of its kind for our company and we had great comments, with many
women stepping forward and sharing their own stories.’
‘The apprenticeship has really brought me out of my shell,
and I’ve pushed myself out of my comfort zone like with taking part in this
event.’
‘If I could give advice to any
mature people that are considering an apprenticeship, I would shout I from the
rooftops and say, ‘go for it’ be resilient and remember you’re never old to learn
(and thrive!).’
Melanie is a wonderful example of how
apprenticeships offer both professional and personal growth. Her story highlights
that apprenticeships are for everyone; no matter their age, career stage or
role and showcasing the impact developing new skills can have on a person’s
confidence. Melanie's resilience, determination, and positive impact on her
peers and organisation make her a worthy winner.
Congratulations
Melanie!
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