21-year-old Eloise Hall joined Leeds Building Society’s apprenticeship scheme through Leeds City College
Eloise felt the Leeds Building Society’s apprenticeship scheme was a great way to enter the business world and gain some work experience. Having just passed her A-levels, she was thinking about her future and, while many her age were considering university, she recognised the benefits of studying on the job.
Eloise was among the first to be taken on by the building society in 2012 under its apprenticeship scheme with Leeds City College—all of whom had little or no previous experience in the financial services sector. Apprentices are matched with different departments and complete two years of paid training in the workplace as they progress towards formal qualifications in their chosen specialism.
The apprenticeship provided Eloise with the opportunity to work in many different departments, gaining a comprehensive understanding of how the business operates and developing skills in professionalism, team working and people management.
Eloise now works as a telephone business development manager, has completed her apprenticeship with an NVQ in financial services, and is undertaking a CMI course in first-line management.
“I would strongly recommend the apprenticeship scheme run in partnership with Leeds City College and Leeds Building Society, as my career and I have benefited hugely,” said Eloise. “I have gained experience and skills without sacrificing my education and I am proud to have been a part of the scheme and a colleague at Leeds Building Society. I found being able to manage the college coursework in addition to my job role very rewarding, especially once I received my certificates!”
