This National Apprenticeship Week, we’re continuing to celebrate the success of our apprenticeships and the positive impact that they can have on both individuals and employers. Next, we’re shining a spotlight on 19-year-old Robyn Hibbert, who is currently undertaking an 18-month IT apprenticeship with us.
When did you join Livv and how’s it going? Tell us a little bit about your role
I joined Livv in June 2021 as an IT apprentice and it’s going great! I have learnt things that I never thought I would learn within a business, and I am growing my skills each day. Every day I am learning something new, whether it is IT related or not. In my role, I work on the service desk so whenever someone needs IT support, I am one of the first people that staff would speak to or contact.
Why did you choose to take the apprenticeship route?
I decided to take the apprenticeship route as I always struggled to know what I wanted to do once I’d left sixth form. I never had an interest in university, as I didn’t want to jump into something I knew I wouldn’t enjoy. Plus, you can always go to university when you are older and know exactly what you want to study.
Getting an apprenticeship therefore was the best option as it gave me the opportunity to see what it’s like to work in a business and the first-hand experience and qualification that I gain will help me to get a job afterwards, whether that be at the same company or somewhere else.
What’s the most important lesson or valuable skill you have learnt during your time as an apprentice?
Understanding that it’s okay to struggle at times and to ask for help. Everybody is here to help you learn and develop.
What do you enjoy the most about working at Livv?
For me, it’s the staff. A lot of the staff members are really friendly, approachable and understanding.
What advice would you give to a young person finishing school?
One thing I’d love for young people to understand is that you don’t have to do something (e.g. go to university) just because your friends are doing it or, because your teachers are pushing it towards you. In school, we never spoke about apprenticeships [only university], so I had to do my own research and in the end it was worth it.