Presenting Jayva’s new apprentice, Jake Miller
Apprenticeships are a win-win for both employers and apprentices. For employers, they’re a valuable workforce development and productivity strategy. For apprentices, they’re an exciting chance to get hands-on training and immediately put these new-found skills into practice.
That’s why, at Jayva, we’ve got a history of offering apprenticeship positions, with Alison Brown being a case in point, who’s progressed from Business Administration Apprentice to Global Systems Administrator throughout her time at Jayva.
Having recently appointed Jake Miller as Business Administration/IT Apprentice, we introduce you to our latest recruit and explain more about the multiple, and surprising, benefits of apprenticeship schemes for all parties…
Welcome to Jake
Career history to date
Jake joins Jayva as a GCSE school leaver, having previously been employed in an Italian restaurant during his final year at secondary school.
Jake explains, “In my position at The Wild Olive, I learned about behaving professionally in the workplace, gained useful experience in time management and punctuality, discovered the importance of teamwork and developed strong people skills – all of which are transferrable to my role at Jayva and my future career. For me, the opportunity to earn, learn and gain a professional recognised qualification via an apprenticeship was the perfect fit. I learn better through doing rather than lecture-type sessions.”
Jake’s apprenticeship plans
As part of Jake’s part-work, part-study commitments on the apprenticeship scheme, Jake spends four days in our Gosforth office with one day blocked out for attending college and undertaking learning.
Jake adds, “Every Tuesday is study day. I’m either in class at Lakes College or studying at home by working on training modules and assignments which cover core subjects like Maths, English, IT and other job-related topics.”
With Jayva being one of LEAP Legal Software’s primary certified consultants, comprising supporting implementation of LEAP’s case management system with project management and training services, a core element of Jake’s Tuesdays is viewing LEAP’s software walk-through videos.
Jake continues, “Even though I’m not delivering training in my role just yet, I’m diligently working through the ‘LEAP University’ online portal videos to better understand its software, which will empower me to do my work to the best of my ability – now and in time to come. One of my core duties is helping LEAP clients with their technology projects. My main tasks include software installation, system configuration, support request logging and general business administration relating to software roll out. The more I know about how Jayva’s clients use LEAP’s software, the better I can perform my responsibilities.”
When your mum is the boss
If Jake’s name sounds familiar, that’s because he’s the son of our founder and Chief Executive Officer, Nicola Moore-Miller. Anyone who’s read ‘Our story’ web page will know the name ‘Jayva’ was formed by the merging of Nicola’s two children’s names, Jake and Eva, speaking volumes about our company’s roots being in family.
Commenting on having his mum as his leader, Jake states, “Some people might focus on the negatives of your mum being your boss. Increased pressures as you’ll get a telling off if you step out of line, or enhanced tension as you can get on each other’s nerves when spending so much time together, for instance. For me, mum is the best boss possible. She’s right by my side for help when I need it and she’s understanding if I make mistakes. I feel very supported.”
Familiarity of mum’s business
Nicola established Jayva back in 2014. With an emphasis on family, Nicola’s children have been introduced to our business from the outset. Resultingly, Jake already knew about our company’s structure, sector specialisms, services portfolio and many of the team, having spent time together socially and at corporate events.
“I’ve feel like I’ve slotted into place quite nicely”, concludes Jake. “Not only have I been warmly welcomed, everything is familiar and friendly, including my now-colleagues. Whether it’s my manager and mentor, Leanne Pearson, or any other team member, there’s reassurance that I’m not on my own. Instead, people go out of their way to assist when I call upon them for guidance. I have complete backing.”
Lakes College has its say
When asked about the collaboration between Lakes College and Jayva, Sue Wells, Apprentice Skills & Development Coach, reveals, “Jake’s apprenticeship will be focused on developing his knowledge, skills and behaviours over the 18-month course. As his coach, we’ll be working closely together on building a portfolio which covers a range of topics from understanding the value of new skillsets, to managing change, and understanding legislation and regulations. It’s a wide remit.
“Jake and I will collaborate on acquiring and strengthening skills such as digital, planning and organising, and project management, to name a few. And, we’ll ensure Jake develops positive, professional behaviours, from personal presentation to managing team performance, and lots of good stuff in between. Lakes College has a fantastic track record of achievement with apprenticeships in West Cumbria and we’re delighted to be teaming up with Jayva to support Jake in his career development.”
Nicola’s viewpoint on Jake’s apprenticeship
Reflecting upon Jayva’s latest apprenticeship appointment being her son, Nicola says, “Being completely honest, I had mixed emotions about Jake coming into the business. I was concerned that balancing being Jake’s mum, and being an effective manager would potentially cause a conflict. Jake was adamant he wanted to do an apprenticeship following his GCSEs and has always been keen on carrying on the family business. However, I must admit, I thought he would choose the joinery business with my dad and husband as opposed to business management at Jayva. In that sense, the timing of our search for an apprentice couldn’t have been better. We’d already started advertising for an apprenticeship when Jake decided his career preference so the pieces of the puzzle fell into place.
“Jake’s now part of the Jayva family and whilst it takes a bit of getting used to for Jake and I, as mum and son, we’re really excited to have him on board. We’re confident that with his skills, keenness to learn and easy-going personality, he’s going to do brilliantly. As his mum, I’m so happy to see him settled into the next part of his journey into adulthood. Having a full-time job, earning a salary, working on his NVQ Level 3 and managing all those commitments is a challenge when you’ve only just turned 16, but he’s doing amazingly and making me proud every day.”
Apprenticeship beneficial outcomes for employers
Having briefly touched upon the advantages of apprenticeships for businesses, here are some fuller descriptions of the myriad benefits:
Skilled workforce: Apprenticeships allow employers to train workers in specific competencies that are directly relevant to their industry or organisation. This ensures employees are equipped with the skills needed to perform their jobs effectively.
Customised training: Employers have the flexibility to design apprenticeship programmes aligning with their specific needs and goals. This customisation enables businesses to address skill gaps and adapt to changing sector demands.
Cost effectiveness: Apprenticeships represent a cost-effective way to recruit and train new employees. While apprentices are learning on the job, their salaries are part-funded by government contributions, making it an economical option for employers.
Staff retention: Apprenticeship programmes foster loyalty among participants, increasing employee retention rates. Apprentices are more inclined to stay with the company that’s invested in their training and development.
Productivity boost: As apprentices develop professionally and personally, they contribute to productivity. Over time, their contributions far outweigh the initial investment made in their training.
Succession planning: Apprenticeships allow employers to identify and nurture future leaders from within their business. This ensures a smooth transition when employees retire or leave the company.
Improved reputation: Companies investing in apprenticeship programmes have a positive reputation as employers of choice, thereby attracting top talent and promoting the company’s brand image.
Innovation: Apprenticeships bring fresh perspectives and ideas into the organisation. Apprentices, often younger individuals, may have a different outlook and familiarity with emerging technologies, contributing to innovation and creativity.
Community engagement: Employers offering apprenticeships demonstrate their commitment to workforce development and the communities in which they operate. This forges closer relationships with local educational institutions, government agencies and other community groups.
Benefits to individuals pursuing apprenticeships
Again, we’ve already hinted at the benefits for individuals on the apprenticeship pathway to gainful employment, skills development and career advancement. To clarify, in detail:
New skillsets: Apprenticeships provide training and experience in a specific profession. Apprentices acquire valuable skills and competencies directly applicable to their chosen field, making them more employable.
Earning while learning: Apprentices earn a wage while they’re training. This permits them to support themselves financially and reduces the monetary burden associated with traditional educational routes.
Job security: Completing an apprenticeship leads to long-term job security. Employers have invested time and resources in training apprentices and are likely to keep them as fully qualified employees upon programme completion.
Gaining qualifications: Apprenticeships typically result in industry-recognised certifications or qualifications, which enhance an individual’s lifelong career prospects and earning potential.
Career progression: In terms of career advancement, apprentices start with entry-level positions and work their way up to senior roles as they gain experience and expertise. Their CVs are all the better for it.
Increased confidence: Apprentices gain confidence as their abilities grow. This new-found self-assurance impacts both their professional and personal lives.
Practical experience: Apprenticeships provide practical experience that cannot always be gained in a classroom setting. This experience is appreciated by employers and helps apprentices apply theoretical knowledge to real situations.
Transferrable skills: Many of the skills acquired during an apprenticeship, such as problem-solving, teamworking and communication, are transferrable to other industries and professions, increasing an individual’s versatility in the job market.
Personal fulfilment: Apprentices derive fulfilment from their work, as they’re actively engaged in learning and contributing to the workplace, leading to greater job satisfaction and a sense of purpose.
Support and mentorship: Apprenticeships are mentored from experienced colleagues. Guidance and support are instrumental in an apprentice’s ongoing growth and development.
