Build the Future with an Anchor Apprenticeship

The theme of this year’s National Apprenticeship Week is ‘Build the Future’ and we couldn’t think of a more poignant story to share than that of our Apprentice Care Assistant, Lily Allan.

In June 2012, Anchor care home West Hall welcomed some very special guests including the Lord Mayor, Anchor’s CEO Jane Ashcroft and some pupils from the West Byfleet Infant School. One of those pupils was Lily Allan (pictured here on the left with her thumb up!).

All were invited to West Hall to plant a time capsule in the grounds, a piece of history to be cherished in the future. Little did Lily know that her experience that day would determine the course of her career. Lily’s school trip introduced her to care homes, their residents and just how rewarding it is to work there. From this moment on she knew she wanted to be a carer one day.

Nine years on, Anchor welcomed Lily an Apprentice Care Assistant in September 2021 at the very care home she visited all those years ago. We caught up with Lilly this National Apprenticeship Week to find out how she’s getting on with her apprenticeship at Anchor:

So far, I have really enjoyed the experience. The staff have been very helpful and kind but the residents are what makes the job so much fun. Every day is different and there is always something new I am learning. It’s only been 4 months but it has flown past so quickly. Be able to gain real hands-on experience is so much better for me rather than sitting in a classroom.

I am learning many new skills at West Hall and I feel that I am becoming more and more confident with every day. The good thing is that I am learning a combination of technical skills as well as personal skills. I am listening and learning to how the more experienced staff members manage the residents and learning skills such as patience, empathy, organisation as well as how to communicate with the residents.

My plans for the future are to complete my apprenticeship and hopefully continue my career with Anchor at West Hall. I hope to become more qualified as my experience in care work increases which will lead to more opportunities for me for the future.

For more information on what Anchor apprenticeships are available for you, please visit: https://www.anchor.org.uk/careers/where-you-fit/apprenticeships