Name: Samantha Scott
School: Bridgnorth Endowed School
Current role: Finance and Operations Officer
Training course: Level 4 School Business Professional

What are your motivations for starting an apprenticeship?

“I decided to start an apprenticeship because I wanted to gain practical, real-world experience while learning the trade of a school business professional. I believe that hands-on learning is the best way to develop my skills and build a strong foundation for my career.

An apprenticeship also offers the opportunity to work alongside experts in the field, which allows me to learn from their knowledge and experience.”

How is this helping with your current role?

“My apprenticeship is providing me with valuable, hands-on experience that directly applies to the tasks I handle every day. Without completing the apprenticeship, I would not have had the confidence to take on my new role as Finance and Operations Officer within the school.

At the start of the course, I was particularly unsure about the operations aspect of the role; however, the programme has helped me develop a strong understanding of this area, allowing me to approach my responsibilities with greater assurance. 

I am learning new techniques and skills that improve my efficiency and enhance the quality of my work. For example, I am developing my communication abilities, which are crucial in my role – especially when supporting another school’s finance department and collaborating with a wide range of stakeholders at different levels.

As a result, I feel more confident in both my technical and interpersonal interactions. Additionally, the mentorship I’m receiving through the apprenticeship has provided fresh perspectives and practical solutions to the challenges I face in my current role.”

How will the apprenticeship support your future career development?

“The hands-on experience is allowing me to understand key areas like budgeting, financial reporting and resource management, which are essential for a successful career in this field. Additionally, I’m gaining insight into the broader functions of this role, such as procurement and staffing, which are crucial for the day-to-day running of a school. The opportunity to support another school during staff absences also gives me the chance to step into different roles and broaden my skill set, preparing me to handle a range of challenges that may arise in different school settings.

Overall, this apprenticeship is giving me a well-rounded foundation to become a confident and capable school business professional, ready to contribute to the efficient and effective management of a school.”

What you are your tips for balancing work and study?

“Balancing work and study can be a challenge, but with a realistic approach, it is manageable.  A few tips I suggest are:

1. Create a schedule: dedicating time without feeling overwhelmed, using a calendar or planner helps keeping track of deadlines and commitments.
2. Set realistic goals: this applies to both work and study, don’t overcommit – be honest with how much you can handle and work from there.
3. Communicate with your line manager and colleagues: if the work-study balance is becoming a struggle, communicate with your line manager and colleagues. They may be able to offer support and adjust your workload appropriately.
4. Self-care: it is easy to forget self-care when juggling everything, rest and relaxation are important to maintain focus and energy. Don’t forget to get enough sleep, eat well and make time for hobbies and catching up with friends!”