Anna
Anna O’Connor, 27, started work-experience with Mitie last July and after eight weeks, she was offered an apprenticeship in the post room.
"After four years of work-based training with ECL, I was ready for a new challenge"
As Anna explains: “After four years of work-based training with ECL, I was ready for a new challenge. I’d already gained experience in the kitchen at Greenacres, as well as being a buddy at Ravensbourne, so Caroline suggested I apply for a work experience role with Mitie.
“At first, I was quite nervous and shy, but the team were so friendly and made me feel really welcome. They made adjustments to ensure it was a safe environment for me to work in; as I suffer from seizures, they dimmed the lighting and I have been given pink sheets that are easier for me to read from.
“Nine months on, and I am a much more confident person – I’ve even been getting the bus to and from work, which is something I would never have done before. I’ve also learnt lots of new skills and my favourite parts of the role are using the franking machine, filling in the record book and processing cheques. I’m at work three days a week and do one day of studying at college.
“After my apprenticeship, I’d really love to find permanent employment in a post room as I think I’ve found a role that I really enjoy!”