National Apprenticeship Week: Ryan

As part of National Apprenticeship Week, we are highlighting some our staff who joined the Foundation as apprentices and have become crucial to our success. Ryan took his first steps in the world of work as an apprentice with Foundation of Light almost four years ago after finding out studying at college wasn't for him. He is an integral part of the Foundation's Administration Support Team and became one of the first to be appointed to the Beacon of Light's staff earlier this year.

I first joined the Foundation at the age of 17 after coming across the opportunity when looking into apprenticeships within the Sunderland area. After attending college for a year, I started my apprenticeship and found that going straight into work whilst gaining a qualification was the better option as it has helped me gain a lot of experience at quite a young age.

As well as working within a busy office environment, Ryan also gained qualifications in Business Administration guided by a Foundation mentor and was offered a full-time role with the charity upon completion of his apprenticeship. His current job role sees him works closely with staff across the charity to ensure admin queries are dealt with and supporting the Beacon of Light School with day-to-day tasks. This summer the Foundation will be moving into the world-class Beacon of Light, a new state of the art community facility based in Sunderland which will be accessible to young people, families and adults from across the region. "I am very excited to move into the Beacon of Light, I can't wait," he adds. "My apprenticeship has helped me achieve what I have as I gained a lot of experience as well as improving my communication skills with both staff and customers. "I would highly recommend an apprenticeship as it has helped me gain a lot of experience as well as gain a qualification whilst earning a salary."