Student to teacher and back to student – a full circle of opportunity!

Meet Robyn

A time for change

After A-Levels, I went to university to study Language and Linguistic Science before going on to complete a PGCE to become a teacher. 

After five years of teaching, I decided it was time for a change. I thought hard about what I did and didn’t enjoy about my career in education and what were my strengths. I decided that I am great at talking (indeed every school report had supported that theory… not always when I should be talking admittedly...!). I also wanted a job where I could make a positive difference to others. I knew, therefore, that a job with people in a company that cares was my way forward.

What better route to a job with people than becoming a people professional?! I would be supporting employees within an organisation and working with a range of stakeholders, whether through leading training, assessment centres, or a number of other opportunities.

Why an apprenticeship?

I understood that an apprenticeship would allow me to earn as I learn, and to develop the skills I would need to change career. It would also allow me on-the-job training combined with independent study.

I was attracted to LBG for several reasons, including their values which shone through in every Lloyds Careers Live event, webinar, video and testimony. The fact that all LBG apprentices are permanent colleagues from Day one also stood out to me as that’s not the case in all organisations and to me, it shows how much apprentices are valued within the company.

There were certainly several reasons why I decided to complete an apprenticeship with LBG, and it is hard to identify an over-arching motivation, but one thing is for certain… I am sure glad that I did!

Fast forward a few months and I am now working as a Next Generation Talent Consultant at LBG. I am studying the CIPD Associate Diploma in People Management (Level 5). I work towards the qualification alongside my permanent role and receive 20% (6 hours) study time per week. I study a range of modules, including ‘Evidence-based practice’, ‘Talent management and workforce planning’ and ‘Employment relationship management’ to name but a few.

On completion of the CIPD Associate Diploma in People Management (Level 5), I will have good knowledge and a plethora of experience of HR in practice.

I enjoy the fact that I learn new expertise, skills and behaviours during the online teaching sessions and through my wider reading which I can use and develop further in my day-to-day role. This combined learning approach is a valuable and clear way to see yourself develop.

An inclusive culture

Lloyds Banking Group has a very inclusive and positive culture. All colleagues are encouraged to bring their best to work but are supported by line managers, colleagues and various networks to do this. 

From my own experience, I can say that as an apprentice, you have a range of support networks such as your line manager and team, your training provider coach, other apprentices, and a buddy. There is always someone you can go to if you’re unsure about something, and regular check-ins with your coach and line manager.

I work in the Leeds hub and there is always something going on! Whether it be craft classes, yoga, choir or free kitchen treats, I’m never short of something to do on a lunch time!

Is an apprenticeship for you?

An apprenticeship allows you to earn while you learn so you don’t have student debt to worry about. It also allows you to get real-world work experience and build your future.

You’ll have lots of social opportunities and fun as part of your apprenticeship here. There is also a healthy amount of challenge involved so be ready to work hard and learn how to be the best that you can be!