SARA DRIVES HER CAREER TO SUCCESS

Sara McAllister, 20, from Blackburn is moving her career up a gear, and leading the way for other young women, as she completes an Apprenticeship in Vehicle Refinishing with Blackburn based training provider, Training 2000, whilst working at Great Harwood based Gaskell Motors.

After completing her GCSEs at Darwen Vale School, Sara wanted to turn her passion for cars into a career. After learning about how Apprenticeships allow learners to train while they work, Sara decided to undertake an Apprenticeship at Training 2000.

Sara said: “I have always loved cars and wanted to start working with them as soon as possible, so for me the option of working within the industry whilst gaining qualifications was perfect.

“My Advisors at Training 2000 have been really helpful, they are on-hand to offer advice on all aspects of my training… or my personal life! Being a female in a male dominated industry may appear daunting, but I have found with the support of Training 2000 and my employer, that there are no barriers and it really doesn’t make a difference whichever sex you are.”

Nick Gaskell, Managing Director of Gaskell Motors commented: “Fully trained staff are our greatest asset and I believe that apprentices provide the company with fresh skills and a new mindset.

“As new working techniques are introduced it’s generally the younger members of staff that are willing to take them on-board and integrate them into their work, yet it’s important they learn the original practises, so apprentices can work with older more experienced members of staff to perfect these skills too.”

“The training is delivered flexibly, Sara is based at work for four weeks, she then completes training for four days, then carries out another four weeks with us, which minimises disruption to her work here.”

Paul Price, Career Development Advisor, at Training 2000 commented: “Sara is progressing really well with her training, she is currently coming towards the end of her Level 2 and is soon to commence her Level 3.

“Sara has really embraced her Apprenticeship, throwing herself in at the deep end with the drive and determination to succeed. I have every confidence that she will move onwards and upwards within the field.”

Having been named Highly Commended in the Apprentice of the Year category at the Learning and Skills Council’s (LSC) North West Learner Awards 2009, Sara is on track to continue to gain qualifications and achieve success.

Sara concludes: “I am probably one of the few people who loves to get up and go to work, I really enjoy the practical element of my work and it’s great that I can incorporate this into recognised qualifications.

“One day I would like to own my own garage and my Apprenticeship is providing me with the right skills, building my experience in order to achieve this.”

SARA DRIVES HER CAREER TO SUCCESS

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