Name: Jade Dudman
Age: 17
Apprenticeship: Advanced Apprenticeship: Engineering
Training Provider: PETA
Before Jade became an Apprentice in February 2008, she studied forensic science at South Downs College. After a year of the course, Jade realised the course wasn’t for her and decided on something more practical. Jade’s Career Adviser suggested Jade studied another academic subject, but Jade knew that she wanted to explore other ways of learning.
Jade comments, “I had heard about Apprenticeships Online from my friends, so I decided to look online to see what training opportunities were available. I came across an Engineering Apprenticeship with PETA, and it really appealed to me. It hadn’t even crossed my mind that I might be the only girl on the course! I just wanted to learn some practical skills. After I submitted my application to Apprenticeships Online, I received a letter from PETA inviting me for an interview. I attended the interview, and after passing an industry test and my basic skills assessment I was offered a place on a Pre Apprenticeship course. The whole process was really fast.”
Jade started her Pre Apprenticeship course with PETA, in February 2008. The course taught Jade the basic engineering skills required for her Apprenticeship, and also gave her time to enhance her basic skills in numeracy and literacy. Since then Jade has been building on her engineering knowledge; learning about the different materials used in engineering; and studying the application of maths and science as part of her Vocational Related Qualification (VRQ). Jade finishes her training in July, and starts working for Colt International Limited based at Havant in August. Jade will study for an NVQ Level 3 as part of an Advanced Apprenticeship and will have day release to a local college to complete a technical certificate.
“Knowing I have a job lined up encourages and motivates me to do well, and I am really looking forward to starting work. My employer will provide on-the-job training in each section: welding; mechanical maintenance; and electrical engineering so I can gain valuable experience in each area before choosing a specialism.”
Jade received an Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) of £30 per week while at PETA, and will continue to receive an EMA until she starts work. The additional financial support goes towards petrol, rent and Jade’s phone bill. Jade comments, “Getting an EMA was a real incentive to learn. I am now even more motivated knowing that when I start work I will be earning about £180 per week. My Apprenticeship will allow me to progress further in my career, I’ll have to work hard – but I know it will be worth it.”
Jade has no regrets about going to college before her Apprenticeship, as she says it gave her time to think seriously about what she wanted to do.
