Congratulations to James Cox for his outstanding achievement in completing the Information Communication Technician L3 apprenticeship course with distinction! It is evident that James’s dedication and hard work have paid off, showcasing the true value of investing in apprenticeships.
James Cox achieves Distinction in his Level 3 Apprenticeship
James’s self-motivation and passion for learning to grow his skills and knowledge base throughout his 18-month apprenticeship has made a significant impact at Central Technology seeing James become a great asset to the team.
We understand that both the apprentice and company benefit from apprenticeship programs and that this would not be possible without the mentoring from the team here at CT. The support provided by individuals like Maddie Brindley, an experienced Technical Support Specialist, in liaising with the apprenticeship provider and helping with coursework and assessments, plays a crucial role in fostering the growth and success of each apprentice.
Maddie’s words of praise for James’s hard work and thirst for knowledge demonstrate the positive impact apprenticeships can have on an individual’s personal and professional growth. “James’s distinction in his apprenticeship is a testament to the high standards and excellence that can be achieved through such programs.”
Nick Holt, the Service Desk Manager at Central Technology, also acknowledges James’s dedication and commitment to his apprenticeship work. “This recognition highlights the effectiveness of CT’s apprenticeship program in cultivating talented and knowledgeable team members.”
We asked James a few questions to hear more about the apprenticeship process and why he chose Central Technology as his workplace.
What made you want to undertake an apprenticeship?
I’ve always wanted to do an apprenticeship ever since secondary school because I have a keen interest in IT and thought it’s a great way to gain practical knowledge and learn on the job. The support I receive in an apprenticeship is something that I have always valued, I have the support of both the apprenticeship and my coordinator as well as my team and employer.
What qualifications did you obtain before starting your apprenticeship?
Before my apprenticeship, I completed my GCSEs which lead me to a Level 3 Diploma in Network and Technology at Sheffield City College, once that was completed, I naturally wanted to look towards an apprenticeship. Then I managed get my foot in the door at CT and progressed from there!
Why did you choose to do a technology-based course?
I had dabbled with computers when I was younger but really got into them when I was in year 10 doing my work placement. I worked at the company of a family friend improving their internal admin system, this kick-started my interest in technological work. My favourite subject at school was IT, this was because I was learning something that I actually thought was interesting and fun. I chose this as an option for GCSE, and I found after this and my work placement, IT was what I wanted to pursue.
Why did you opt for Central Technology as your work placement?
I got this role at CT through a stroke of luck, I contacted Ian Snow who was the MD at that time, to discuss my interest in joining the team. From there I spoke to HR to iron out some of the details and managed to get an interview. This was a great experience and I was welcomed warmly, we even had the office dog in the interview! I got offered the role and accepted without hesitation.
What do you enjoy about your role at CT?
At CT every day is different, the challenges that we deal can change from day to day, which keeps the job interesting! Previously, I had only theoretical knowledge from my time in education, this made my time here even more enjoyable as I’ve got to implement that into tasks I’m completing on a daily basis. The environment in the office is very welcoming and warm, everyone is happy to help with any queries I have. It really is a great team to work with!
What does an average day look like as a CT apprentice?
My average day is never the same as every customer query or issue can be different to the last one. Most days I take customer calls and troubleshoot issues that customers are having. I also work on queries emailed into the service queue, then every few weeks I would undertake a week-long workshop for my apprenticeship where I would attend online classrooms to prepare for my end point assessment. This helps me to apply my learning to my job role.
James’s journey as an apprentice at CT demonstrates the rewards of apprenticeship programs, showcasing how they can positively impact both the individual and the company as a whole. Congratulations once again to James, and to all the team at Central Technology involved in helping to provide a thriving apprenticeship culture!
