A man who worked in factories most of his life said he is enjoying 'better prospects' after picking up a horticultural apprenticeship in Oldham.
Several people across Oldham of all ages, backgrounds and abilities are enjoying success after signing up to a First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) apprenticeship.
This includes 40-year-old Craig Knox who joined the social housing company as a neighbourhood care grounds apprentice in 2023 after working in factories for most of his working life.
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Embarking on an apprenticeship is no easy feat, but FCHO said Craig has "smashed any myths and misconceptions" about the route and is steaming ahead towards achieving a Level 2 apprenticeship in horticulture.
Reflecting on the big decision, Craig said: "I’ve worked in factories since leaving school and was getting rather restless.
"I needed a career change and I wanted to do something I enjoy.
"I’ve always loved being outside whether this is going fishing with my family or just cutting my lawn at home, so when an apprenticeship at FCHO came up in grounds maintenance – I thought, why not?
"Not only do I enjoy it, but I’m also gaining a qualification which will create better prospects for me and my family.
"Never did I think I’d be working towards an apprenticeship at 40 years old but I’m proud of myself for putting myself out there and going for it.
"I’m loving the skills I’m learning, the training I’m receiving and the fantastic environment I’m working in."
Craig added: "My advice is this – you’re never too old and it’s not too late.
"If you want something – go for it. You never know unless you try.”
Joining him in celebrating success is Tasnim 'Tas' Begum, FCHO's newest apprentice having joined just five weeks ago in the role of apprentice neighbourhood co-ordinator.
At 24 years old, Tas already has a Level 3 in business admin but now she's looking forward to completing a Level 2 in housing and property management.
Tas said: "I quickly learned that a traditional desk job wasn’t the right fit for me, so when I saw an Apprentice Neighbourhood Co-ordinator position come up with FCHO – it seemed perfect.
“I have no previous experience in housing, but this apprenticeship will allow me to learn the necessary skills and experience to pursue a full-time career in the industry.
“If you’re like me and struggle to learn by reading books or listening to lectures, I would totally recommend an apprenticeship.
"Practical learning, getting hands-on experience and earning a living at the same time is ideal, and I’m excited to see what the future holds."
Meanwhile, Huma Khalid, Sara Lightfoot and Tanisha Rigby have all worked at FCHO for more than 36 years between them.
The three work in very different roles but are all working towards a CIH Level 5 apprenticeship in housing management.
Sara, who is a land and acquisitions offer, is celebrating receiving a distinction following her final assessment.
She said: “I chose to do an apprenticeship as I’ve always enjoyed learning.
"This course has allowed me to develop my knowledge and skills across a range of areas.
"It was challenging but has built up my resilience and gave me the confidence to apply for my current role in the Development team – something which I previously hadn’t felt confident enough to do.”
Huma, who is one of FCHO's income collection officers, and Tanisha, a customer involvement officer, are both still waiting on their final grade which is due to come in any day.
Huma added: “I am a keen learner so was delighted to be able to embark on this apprenticeship and receive a formal qualification.
"Doing an apprenticeship while working full time hasn’t been easy, but the insight I’ve gained into housing as a profession, combined with the skills to provide strategic context to my work, has been invaluable.
"I’m looking forward to seeing what opportunities my newly acquired qualification brings."
Tanisha also said: “Wow, has this apprenticeship challenged me? Definitely.
"Not just operationally but with things like project management, time management and adaptability.
"If you’re considering an apprenticeship – go for it.
"Embrace the challenge, take advantage of all the learning opportunities, stay proactive and most importantly – enjoy it.
"The confidence it will give you – not to mention the skills and knowledge gained – is so worth it.”
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