Driving Success through Apprenticeships: Macy’s HR Apprenticeship with CMS Vocational Training and SIG Plc

Introduction

If you are looking to improve the performance of your organisation and boost your employees’ skills and industry knowledge, apprenticeships with CMS Vocational Training Ltd could be the answer. Consider this: Macy, a driven apprentice, employed at SIG Plc, embarked on a Level 3 HR Support apprenticeship programme with CMS Vocational Training Ltd, and the results were transformative. By earning qualifications while working, Macy was able to hone new skills and gain invaluable work experience under the guidance and support of her peers at SIG Plc.

In this blog post, we will explore Macy’s journey and the benefits that her apprenticeship brought to her and her employer. From boosting career prospects to enhancing on-the-job performance, this case study will illustrate the life-changing impact apprenticeships can have on the apprentice and the benefits of implementing apprenticeships into your organisation.

CMS Vocational Training Ltd: Shaping the Workforce of Tomorrow

Operating for over 40 years, CMS Vocational Training Ltd is an innovative, forward-thinking training provider. It offers high-quality, engaging, and 100% online programmes that are tailored to the needs of the learner and the requirements of the employer, including apprenticeships in:

• Human Resources (HR)
• Learning & Development (L&D)
• Finance/Accountancy (AAT)
• Business Administration
• Leadership and Management (L&M)
• Childcare
• Health and Fitness

CMS caters to a broad range of sectors, equipping learners like Macy with the skills needed for today’s workforce and their future career. Its focus on flexible, high-quality learning has helped many learners kickstart or improve their careers, demonstrating the significant impact of government-funded training and the success of apprenticeships and other workforce development programmes such as Multiply – a government-backed initiative in the United Kingdom, aiming to improve national numeracy skills by offering high-quality, and bespoke free maths courses to adults over 19 years old, who lack adequate maths qualifications, with the broader goal of enhancing individual opportunities and organisational productivity.

SIG Plc: Commitment to Employee Growth and Development

Established in 1957, growing from a single-site distributor to a multinational business, SIG Plc has remained committed to employee growth and development. Its focus on talent development, health and wellbeing, and communication amongst its workforce reflects its core values. SIG’s dedication to fostering innovation and its commitment to a sustainable future aligns perfectly with CMS’s mission, vision and values, creating a harmonious partnership for learners like Macy.

SIG Plc has played a pivotal role in shaping and developing a comprehensive HR curriculum with CMS, geared towards nurturing highly proficient HR professionals. Recognising the potential in Macy, SIG Plc not only provided her with the opportunity to enroll on the Level 3 HR Support apprenticeship standard but also supported her throughout her learning journey. Through this process, Macy was able to expand her skill set, broaden her responsibilities, and become a valued member of their HR team.

The company’s commitment to employee development and fostering a culture of continual learning and professional growth typifies the types of organisations that CMS looks to work with in establishing high-quality apprenticeship programmes. The collaboration between SIG Plc and CMS, as well as the support Macy has received from her personal CMS Tutor (Julie and her peers, has led to Macy’s exceptional progression, transforming her into the skilled and trusted employee she is today.

Macy’s Apprenticeship Journey: From Learning to Application

Macy’s journey as an apprentice has been a rewarding one, filled with new skills and growth opportunities. Let us delve into her experience and the positive impacts the apprenticeship has had on her career trajectory.

1. Can you tell me about the most critical skills and knowledge you acquired during the Level 3 HR Support qualification course with CMS Vocational Training Ltd?

During my Level 3 HR Support apprenticeship, some of the key skills and knowledge I acquired were in HR Legislations & Policy, HR Systems, and Active Listening.

2. Can you provide specific examples of how these skills have been applied in your current role?

These skills have greatly benefited my current role. Understanding of HR legislation has kept my work compliant with laws, particularly those regarding National Minimum Wage, Maternity and Paternity. My comprehension of HR Systems has enabled me to effectively utilise our company’s system for tasks such as report generation and logging disciplinary cases. Lastly, my active listening skills have proved vital during exit interviews, allowing me to grasp important details from exiting employees.

3. How has the training course with CMS impacted your job performance and efficiency?

The CMS training course has significantly enhanced my job performance and efficiency. I now work more independently, am better organised, and capable of prioritising tasks effectively, leading to a smoother operation of the HR team and reduced errors.

4. In what ways have you seen these new skills influence your day-to-day responsibilities and decision-making processes?

These new skills have reshaped my day-to-day responsibilities and decision-making processes. I am more organised and legislation-focused, swiftly identifying task priorities, and ensuring compliance with HR legislations. My newfound confidence and knowledge enable me to make decisions without constant consultation with colleagues or managers.

5. Can you share any specific instances where the knowledge gained from the Level 3 HR Support apprenticeship standard helped you to overcome a challenge at work?

One instance where my course knowledge helped me overcome a challenge was during a complex Right to Work check, where I had to deal professionally with the Home Office, communicate effectively with line managers, maintain emotional intelligence, and ensure compliance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. Despite the challenge, I ensured all procedures were correctly followed and avoided legal issues.

6. How do you believe the Level 3 HR Apprenticeship will shape your career progression in the future?

This qualification has awarded me with an Associate member status of the CIPD, marking me as an HR professional with relevant knowledge and eagerness to stay abreast with industry changes. I believe this will make me stand out to my existing and future employers, bolstering opportunities for my career progression.

7. Can you share additional information about your experience during the course and any subsequent effects on your career or personal life?

Despite personal issues causing me to take a month off work and falling behind on my apprenticeship, I prioritised catching up upon my return. With the support of my tutor and line manager, I got back on track with the programme. This course also paved the way for my transition from a fixed-term contract to a permanent role within the HR & Payroll responsibilities at my company.

Apprenticeships: Benefits for Learners and Employers

Macy’s story underscores the power of apprenticeships in shaping careers and boosting employability. Both employers and learners stand to gain significantly from such programmes. For learners, apprenticeships offer a blend of theoretical learning and firsthand experience, enhancing their skills and job readiness.

For employers, apprenticeships foster talent development and enhance workforce capability. As an employer, realising the potential of apprenticeship benefits can bring considerable advantages for your organisation, particularly in the competitive landscape of the UK. Incorporating apprenticeship training programmes into your talent development strategy can bring the following benefits:

• Talent Development: UK apprenticeships allow you to nurture the precise skills your business requires. As many as 86% of employers stated that apprenticeships developed skills relevant to their organisation.
• Retention: One of the significant benefits of apprenticeships is improved employee retention. Data indicates that a remarkable 65% of apprentices remain with their employer after completing an apprenticeship.
• Improved Productivity: Apprenticeship training programmes can boost your overall productivity. A report from the UK Government highlights 78% of employers said apprenticeships helped them improve productivity.
• Future-proofing Your Business: Through the apprenticeship levy in the UK, you can equip your workforce with practical, industry-relevant skills. It’s reported that 77% of employers believe apprenticeships bolster their competitive edge.
• Positive Work Culture: Apprentices can infuse the workplace with fresh ideas and vitality, boosting morale and fostering a positive work culture. A study discovered that 73% of employers say that staff morale is improved by having apprentices. (Reference: Achieving the Benefits of Apprenticeships)

Investing in UK apprenticeships is not only an investment in your individual employees, but also in the future success of your business. Utilising the benefits of apprenticeships can provide your enterprise with a skilled, committed workforce that’s ready to drive your business forward.

CMS Vocational Training’s apprenticeship programmes are an excellent example of this. They offer high-quality and engaging 100% online courses that are tailored to the training needs of the employer and can be delivered within various sectors including finance, business administration, HR, learning & development, leadership and management, childcare, health, and fitness.

Conclusion: Harnessing the Power of Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships, like the one Macy embarked on, are a testament to the power of collaboration between training providers, organisations, and dedicated individuals. Leveraging government-funded training and the apprenticeship levy can significantly boost career trajectories and provide businesses with skilled employees.

If you are considering an apprenticeship or seeking to train your staff, explore the wide range of programmes offered by CMS Vocational Training. Let us shape your future or that of your employees, just as we did for Macy and SIG Plc. Book a 30-minute webinar/call now or email us on info@cmsvoc.co.uk.