Lewis’ Apprenticeship Experience
Posted on 10th April 2024 at 16:57
Read Time: Approx. 2 Minutes 59 Seconds
Author: Lewis Stretton
My experience as an apprentice at Customer First Digital (CFD) started just under 2 years ago. It has flown by learning so much within such a short amount of time. The balance of learning with the CFD team whilst also improving my knowledge and documenting my actions together at Hull College for my course, makes the apprenticeship experience worthwhile and something I will always recommend.
About my time at Hull College
The course I were taught were insightful, interesting and important for my learning as an apprentice. Both marketing units really helped, as these linked with the work, I was doing with CFD. An interesting unit and something that was totally different to me was coding. This was brand new to me, learning about the different types of code and even writing code as well.
After passing all my units, I moved onto 2 final steps before moving onto my end point assessment. Starting with my portfolio, this was my favourite part of my course at Hull College, because I could reflect on the work I have achieved with Customer First Digital and present it in my portfolio. It helped me reflect and understand what I have done well, but also the things I didn’t do as well, so I could improve and do better next time.
The next stage before my End Point Assessment was a 4-day synoptic Project. This was a really cool and exciting experience, as I was set the challenge of creating a Social Media Marketing Plan based on a fake company brief given to me. It really let me apply the knowledge I gained from both CFD and Hull College to my work. It also allowed me to experience Hull College during the day, as I had my usual college course on an evening.
The final step of my course was the End Point assessment. Although this sounds nerve-wracking, it is an interview with an assessor to go through the work you have already done.
Overall, my time as an apprentice at Hull College was amazing. I learned so much information while also meeting other apprentices and friends studying the same course as me and with the support of my Skills Coach, Andrew Sanders, it justifies my opinion of apprenticeships at Hull College as something I recommend.
What have I learnt in my first half year ...
When I started back in July 2022, I was initially nervous but excited to see what was in store. Despite not knowing much about the Affiliate Marketing industry, I was ready to take on the challenge and understand as much as possible. Everyone in the team helped me learn everything so quickly and effectively and this is one of the greatest things about working with CFD. Not only have I learnt so much, but I have also managed to transfer knowledge to Liv and most recently, Cerie with the support of Dave and Suzanne.
Not only have I stayed in the office learning, but I have also done so much out of office, attending my first networking event in Brighton, The Affiliate Huddle. I managed to meet many new faces and also put a face to the people I email every day. It was great going to an event like this, as it’s not only nice to enjoy cities like Brighton but also to build my knowledge and experience as an apprentice.
Out-of-work (social) events are also something that has been a part of my apprenticeship experience. With many meals and days out, like when we went, and Team Apprentices beat the Cube and Team Bosses or when we competed in a charity footgolf tournament.
Overall, there was never a dull day at CFD, with either learning something new or being involved in social events.
My Final Grade
On 28th March I was given the great news that I had achieved a distinction for the Digital Marketing Apprenticeship. This was really rewarding, as I put in a lot of work and effort and was rewarded with what I wanted. With the support of Hull College, the CFD team and Andrew Sanders, I could help achieve the grade.
I am looking forward to continuing to develop with the team and taking on what’s next for me at Customer First Digital.
Tagged as: Digital Marketing, Team
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