A 46-year-old student has been shortlisted for the Lancashire Apprenticeship Awards – and is encouraging others to following in her footsteps.
Shelley Gill (pictured) who attends Nelson and Colne College, is a finalist in the Higher Apprentice of the Year category – where she will go head-to-head with three other Lancashire students for the coveted title.
The event, which aims to provide a platform to recognise, reward and celebrate organisations and institutions, will take place at Lancaster University on March 27.
Shelley from Burnley, said: “I felt really honoured to be nominated by my tutor, Julie Garrigan. I wasn’t expecting it! She’s so supportive and she just gives me positive feedback and encouragement all the time.
“I’m really excited to be going because it is hard work doing apprenticeship when you’re working full time, but I’m so proud of what I’ve achieved.”
Shelley is currently studying for her Institute for Leadership and Management level five apprenticeship diploma, which she is due to complete by October.
She has worked for East Lancashire Healthcare Trust (ELHT) for 20 years, beginning her career as a receptionist. She gradually progressed, taking on more responsibility within the Trust.
In 2021, Shelley began studying at Nelson & Colne College as part of her management trainee programme. She was identified by her line manager as part of the Trusts’ commitment to succession planning.
She said the course – which has taught her about organisational strategy, project management and much more – has boosted her self-confidence.
She said: “I have been a Deputy Centre Manager for some time and an opportunity to be a COAS stands for Centralised Outpatients and Administration Services (COAS) trainee manager was shared, but they had to complete the qualification. Once the qualification is complete, you move up to the next pay grade and become a centre manager. I had already been doing the job, so I felt like it was the next step.
“If there’s anybody out there that is thinking about doing an apprenticeship, just go for it! I’ve had the best experience and the best two years.”
