A team of North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) apprentices who joined software giant Sage last year are making a huge impact on their employer and trainers.
The group has successfully settled into their new careers and is working full time to provide excellent customer service at the software giant’s Newcastle headquarters across Sage Pay, Loyalty and Sales.
Last summer, Sage commissioned NECC, one of the largest independent training providers in the North East, to facilitate its recruitment drive in the North East, resulting in NECC appointing 45 of the 48 roles in a range of responsibilities.
Theresa Bryson, loyalty and inbound team manager at Sage has been working closely with the new recruits.
She said: “I have been blown away at every stage of this process by the professionalism, diligence and maturity shown by these young people. They have been a breath of fresh air. They’re eager to learn and their confidence is building every day considering for some this is their first experience of a professional environment.”
Emily Sharp, 16, an apprentice in Sage Pay is enjoying making valuable working relationships and earning money whilst learning new skills.
“We have achieved so many personal and work based goals and we’re really pleased to be making a positive impact, helping our customers,” said Emily.
“I really enjoy the interaction as I used to be quite shy, but this job has helped me be more confident when talking to people of all backgrounds.”
Andrew Robson, NECC Head of Training Operations, is looking forward to supporting more organisations after NECC were recently awarded a rating of ‘Good’ for its training services by national regulatory service Ofsted.
“We believe apprenticeships are a vital way of introducing young people into business,” said Mr Robson.
“Our dedicated recruitment team has already supported a variety of large and small employers across the region to help find committed and enthusiastic individuals to join their business.
“Sage is one of a host of large North East companies that is really feeling the benefits that apprentices can bring to a business and I would urge all firms to follow their example.”
The hard work and determination of the new apprentices has not gone unnoticed.
Lee Perkins, EVP and Managing Director of Sage UK said: “Sage’s number one priority is to energise the success of businesses and the communities they serve. Our apprenticeship programme is a vital part of that vision.
“By equipping young people from the local area with skills, development and mentoring at the beginning of their careers and providing a platform to build their future, the scheme plays an important role in nurturing local talent and ultimately supporting the future of British business.”
“I’m a firm believer that training and nurturing young people will only lead to great things for them as individuals, for our customers and for Sage as a business.”
NECC supports organisations with consultation, recruitment and training delivery and has a positive relationship with schools and colleges in the region.
For more information visit www.necc.co.uk/training/recruitment-service