Apprenticeships — increase your potential

Hello, I’m Chris Troke, Management Information & Process Lead working within the IT Services team. I have worked for the council for 21 years and, after four years of study alongside my day job, I completed my Digital & Technology Solutions Professional Degree in 2021.

Day-to-day I look after management information and reporting, IT processes and play a key role in supporting the IT service management tool we use within the council — ServiceNow — to provide the best possible experience for my colleagues and analysts.

I completed the apprenticeship because it was a fantastic opportunity that I just couldn’t ignore.

This was not my first apprenticeship. I joined the council through a level two apprenticeship back in 2001 — mainly because I didn’t have the mindset, finances, or stamina for university back then! I had been out of the ‘learning game’ for many years, so when offered the chance to complete my professional development degree almost five years ago, I jumped at the chance to further my personal development.

One of the biggest challenges for me was how much study the apprenticeship required. Initially it was easy to manage alongside work and personal commitments, but it did veer into self-titled ‘intensity periods’ which involved completing two or three different courses at the same time… they definitely named those appropriately!

Completing the apprenticeship while working, I had one day a week dedicated to my course. In the early days this was enough, but as the course progressed, I had to put a lot more hours in in my own time too. My manager was supportive of my learning and we agreed some flexibility where required, with increased time during busy periods, which I gave back when the study calendar allowed.

If you are considering doing an apprenticeship, I would say do it! I thought my opportunity to get myself a degree had passed, but I’m proof there’s always time to follow your dreams — they’re not out of reach if you’re willing to put the time and effort in. In hindsight, I will say that an apprenticeship is a massive commitment and it’s not an easy ride. Be aware that this will need a solid-focus and determination — there will be bumps along the road, for me this was in the shape of COVID-sized obstacles — but if you’re willing to put in the commitment, it’s 100% worth it!

I’ve picked up loads of skills that I’ve already transferred into my day-to-day role. I feel better placed to do my job and the skills I’ve learnt are visible in the work I deliver and solutions I create, with benefits being passed onto colleagues and customers in the organisation. For me, an apprenticeship wasn’t a stepping-stone to a different career path, I wanted to further my skills and knowledge in the area that I love — so I know I’ve been successful in this. I always give 100% in everything I do — my 100% is just bigger now than it was before!

Are you interested in an apprenticeship?

If you would like to find out more, you can contact the apprenticeship mailbox.