So, what does being a Programmes Assistant involve?
I help with the day-to-day coordination of our various programmes – whether that be organising school insight sessions, getting resources ready for events, or sending out emails to students to ensure they have all the information they need and all their questions are answered! No two days are the same, really – it all depends on what events we have coming up and what different stages the programmes are at.
What made you want to work for Visionpath?
When I first started looking into Visionpath, I quickly found that I shared a lot of the same values. I love the idea of being able to help people, whether that be with their future career or other things, and a big part of what we do is helping students gain access to opportunities they might not otherwise have (or even think they would be able to be part of) because of their backgrounds.
I also enjoy being able to support people through a process they might find difficult or daunting – especially if it’s a new experience, like an assessment centre or interview process, which is something I now get to do a lot of! Let’s just say I’m very much a people person and I get to talk to and meet lots of diverse people in my role, so every day I’m doing something I love.
"I love the idea of being able to help people, whether that be with their future career or other things, and a big part of what we do is helping students gain access to opportunities they might not otherwise have"
What’s the best part of your job?
One of the most satisfying parts of my job is seeing how big an impact our programmes have on young people’s lives and futures. It’s amazing being able to see how much people grow in confidence and experience throughout our programmes – and knowing that, whether they end up with an apprenticeship at the end of it or not, you’ve helped them develop a unique set of skills they can use whatever their next steps look like.
I also love hearing when a student who’s been through one of our programmes is happy and loving their new job. It’s fantastic to know you’ve helped someone achieve their goals.
Why do you think businesses are mad to miss out on socially diverse talent?
We see lots of socially diverse students come through our programmes who are talented, show a great amount of commitment, and demonstrate inspiring progression on their journey with us. It amazes me that some businesses are missing out on the opportunity to have these young, talented students as part of their teams.
I really don’t think businesses understand what they’re missing out on. Just because a young person comes from a disadvantaged background, it does not mean in any way that they are less capable of excelling in an industry-leading company.
"It amazes me that some businesses are missing out on the opportunity to have these young, talented students as part of their teams."
What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?
You’ll have to ask me when I get there!
What do you love to do outside of work?
I’ve loved horses and horse riding for as long as I can remember. I still don’t have my own, unfortunately, but I’m working on it! I spend any weekend I can at the stables, or spending too much money shopping…
Here at Visionpath, we do what we do because we want all young people – no matter their background – to start their career on an equal footing. And because we know that, right now, businesses are missing out on a wealth of untapped talent.
Want to find out what Visionpath can do for you? Get in touch.
