Kirsten Black

Kirsten Black gained valuable work experience and skills through her Business Skills Foundation Apprenticeship at NESCol.

Kirsten decided to study a Foundation Apprenticeship during S6, her final year at Oldmachar Academy. She chose this option because she was keen to gain practical experience in a business through the placement opportunity.  Foundation Apprenticeships (FA) are available as a subject choice at school, and form part of a pupil’s school timetable. These courses are typically delivered at NESCol by lecturers who are subject specialists in their industry. Alongside this college-based learning, pupils will have the opportunity to interact directly with employers in the form of a work placement or industry led project.

Kirsten attended college two afternoons a week and completed her placement at Odfjell Technology, an engineering services company, on the other two afternoons. She said, “The coursework completed throughout the year is excellent preparation for starting the placement. Everything is connected, which makes it easier to achieve. Being able to learn the theory and then apply it in a practical setting is really beneficial. I developed many skills from studying the Foundation Apprenticeship, communication, teamwork, and collaborative working, to name just a few.”

Placement highlights

Kirsten considered the final presentation she delivered to the senior leadership team at Odfjell the highlight of completing her foundation apprenticeship. Kirsten said, “I received valuable feedback, which will benefit me in the future. I was delighted to be congratulated by senior colleagues for my efforts throughout the placement, the whole experience was a great confidence builder. ”

Studying at NESCol

Attending school, college, and completing her placement provided Kirsten with a different final year experience. She said, “I found college to be a more relaxed environment. You are treated like an adult, given more responsibility for your learning, and provided with a focus on preparing you for future employment. “

Kirsten also felt the course provided her with the confidence to work in an office setting, which she wouldn’t have otherwise had. She experienced various roles at Odfjell, gaining valuable insights from different departments.

Future plans

Having completed her Foundation Apprenticeship and sixth year at school, Kirsten hopes to secure a Modern Apprenticeship in business where she can further develop her skills and achieve a further qualification.