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YOUNG people are forging successful careers and growing in confidence thanks to an innovative and demanding apprenticeship scheme.
Specsavers is renowned for revolutionising the optical industry with affordable, high-quality eyewear and eye care.
It’s also earned a growing reputation for top-quality expert ear care.
But it’s best-kept secret is its incredible investment and commitment to young people through its apprentice scheme.
It often takes young people with little or no experience and takes the time to develop and shape them into confident young professionals who flourish professionally and personally.
Registered hearing aid dispenser and audiologist Amie Ellis, 25, has successfully completed her apprenticeship with Specsavers, undergoing rigorous training for more than three years.
“I’ve really enjoyed it,” she said. “It’s been a lot of hard work but it’s been worth it.
“I am glad I pushed myself and I’m proud I am now a registered hearing aid dispenser and audiologist.”
Amie now has a foundation degree and graduates in July.
She says the apprenticeship has improved her confidence and helped her both professionally and socially.
“Most of all it’s the feeling of being to help people who might not be able to hear very well and it’s restricting them. They can be lonely and isolated. I can make a difference and provide the aftercare people often need with audiology.”
“Amie was quite shy and university might not have been the place for her,” said Audiology Partner Sandra Wilding.
“But the path she has taken has allowed her to come out with a qualification thanks to a lot of hard work and dedication. She now has a whole career in front of her.”
And it’s not just Amie who is shining at the Pudsey store.
Ben Parker is part of the optical team and loves working on the shop floor. His confidence has grown since he started and he is now two-thirds of the way through his apprenticeship.
“I have learned a lot of new skills and I feel I can contribute a lot more. It’s an excellent company, very professional with high standards.
“I’d like to stay on the shop floor and help and support other apprentices – I’d love to be a shop floor manager and show leadership skills.”
Would he recommend it to others? “100 per cent! It’s genuinely been a great experience which opens up opportunities. Everyone I’ve encountered at Specsavers is a great person.”
19-YEAR-old Herbie Hudson is a relative newbie in Pudsey, having been there for just six months. But he’s already picking up the tools of the trade and feeling confident.
“One of the best things is the community we have here at Pudsey store,” Herbie said. “It’s a good environment and I’m happy to come here every day. I enjoy being able to help people.”
Would he recommend others to join? “Definitely, just do it – I’ve gained so much experience and confidence – it’s made a big difference to me personally. I’m a more confident person.”
Herbie has a strong work ethic and enjoys sorting out customers’ prescriptions and carrying out pre-clinical tests.
Choose a Specsavers apprenticeship and you’ll be part of a team who care deeply about eyecare and hearcare. Apprenticeships offer a great stepping stone into work and a way to upskill on the job.
More details can be found here.