Apprentice of the Month – September 2023

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I have always had a passion for sports since my school days. Football and tennis were my top two, but I also enjoyed playing table tennis, rugby, basketball, and volleyball. Currently, I am training in karate, learning to wing foil, and enjoying activities like paddleboarding and skateboarding. Coaching my son’s football team a couple of years ago opened my eyes to the possibilities of changing careers and pursuing a path working with children and sports.

Why did you choose to be an inspire+ apprentice?

While exploring new career opportunities on various job sites, I came across inspire+. At that time, I wasn’t entirely sure about my career direction. After a conversation with Dave at inspire+, I realized that someone with my experience could embark on an apprenticeship. Dave emphasized that the kids in school would really love having me there in school and so far, they have. Thanks Dave. 

What have you learned during your apprenticeship so far?

I have gained valuable insights into how schools operate, and the demanding nature of the work undertaken by teaching assistants and teachers. Stepping out of my comfort zone, I have taken the lead in gymnastic lessons and sensory circuits. I now have a better understanding of working with children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and have learned about autism.

What do you enjoy the most in your apprenticeship and hope to achieve in the future?

I am thoroughly enjoying both online and face-to-face learning. Working with children from early years to year 6 has been rewarding, and I am excited about expanding into after-school clubs. Having more responsibility with the kids is a fulfilling aspect of my apprenticeship. I aim to complete this apprenticeship and then explore exciting opportunities that come my way. Whether in or out of the school environment, I aspire to continue working with children in the future.

What are your career ambitions?

While I’m not entirely certain about my future career path, my love for sports remains a driving force in my ambitions. I aspire to have a meaningful and impactful role in the world of sports. My overall goal is to stay deeply involved in the world of sports and use my knowledge and skills to positively influence and inspire others.

Would you like to share a good memory from your apprenticeship?

Many memorable moments stand out, such as the excitement of children when I arrive for P.E. sessions. A special moment was when I conducted my first sensory circuit and built obstacle courses. When I did my first sensory circuit and built obstacle courses, I was a bit nervous, but in the end, when all the participants asked if we could do it again next week and saw how much they enjoyed it was a really special moment.

Do you recommend other people to become an inspire+ apprentice?

Absolutely, I wholeheartedly recommend anyone passionate about sports, physical education, and working with children to join inspire+. Their commitment to helping you enter schools, creating a career tailored to your goals, and enhancing your coaching abilities makes the journey enriching. The knowledge gained enables you to conduct excellent sessions, promoting active participation in P.E. activities for everyone.

To find out more about our apprenticeships, visit www.inspireplus.org.uk/apprenticeships