Tariq Perkins is a communications apprentice at Fidelity International, working towards a level 4 diploma in public relations with PRCA
I chose to do an apprenticeship because I wasn’t keen on the idea of going to university, I felt that it wasn’t the right path for me. While going to university is a valuable experience, I felt that it would be more beneficial for me to get the best of both worlds by simultaneously studying and gaining work experience. One of the main attractions for why I chose this apprenticeship was that it was a qualification that I had no previous knowledge about. Furthermore, the job specification that was provided by Fidelity gave me the belief that this was the right path for me to take.
Since I have started my apprenticeship, I have been involved in the creation and preparation of articles, as well as being involved in internal PR campaigns. I have learned how to caption videos and webinars, as well as create and send out webinar invitations.
I feel that I have developed quite a lot over the last year, both professionally and personally. Being exposed to the fast-paced and supportive environment here at Fidelity has allowed me to challenge myself and take the teachings that I have learned and apply them to personal aspects of my life. When working at a company like Fidelity and studying a qualification like PR, there will always be opportunities to improve on areas that are not your strongest. For example, presenting and speaking to students at various colleges or schools and providing them with insight into what it is like to be a communications apprentice here at Fidelity, are examples of me taking advantage of an opportunity that was afforded my way.
The support that I have received and continue to receive from all the staff here at Fidelity, especially my managers and those that I am in contact with at the PRCA, including my mentor, have allowed me to make the progress that I have made so far possible. I would 100% recommend doing this or a similar apprenticeship.
To find out more about apprenticeship training at PRCA, visit www.prca.org.uk
