Building a career as a Housing Executive Apprentice
Apprenticeships are a great stepping stone into a career and offer hands-on experience, professional development and financial stability.
At the Housing Executive, the apprenticeship programme provides a fantastic opportunity to contribute to, and learn from, an organisation dedicated to serving the community.
Since 2017, it has provided development programmes for apprentices, across multiple disciplines including; human resources, finance, asset management, quantity surveying, payroll, housing services and IT, as well as trades such as plumbing, joinery and electricians.
During National Apprenticeship Week, some of the Housing Executive’s apprentices explain why an apprenticeship was the perfect choice for them.
Diverse and Inclusive
Lynne Rodgers joined the Housing Executive as an apprentice following a career break.
“Working for the Housing Executive appealed to me because I really liked the idea of working for an organisation that is diverse and inclusive,” she explained.
One of Lynne’s initial concerns was whether she was the right fit for an apprenticeship, as she didn’t fit the traditional image of a school-leaver at the start of their career.
She said: “I was afraid that I was too old, but when I enquired about the programme, I was encouraged to apply and told that having that life experience was a real benefit.”
Earn while you learn
One major advantage of an apprenticeship at the Housing Executive is the ability to earn a wage while learning, something which takes away the financial strain that can come with further education.
“As an apprentice the fact that I can earn while I learn is fantastic and when I finish, I will have a qualification that has been paid for,” Lynne said.
“There are so many other benefits for me too, like flexi-hours, which work well with family life.”
“We are permanent staff from day one, when quite often with an apprenticeship you’re there as a placement and you might have to apply for a job at the end.
“We have a job from the very beginning which for me was so reassuring.
“I’d really encourage anyone considering an apprenticeship with the Housing Executive to apply. It’s a big organisation with so many varied career opportunities.”
Part of a community
Jonathan Rice is an apprentice and currently works as a Neighbourhood Warden in South and East Belfast.
“I was already an admin worker when my supervisor suggested I apply for the apprenticeship programme and I’m so glad I did,” Jonathan said.
“Now I’m working towards a housing qualification with the benefit of having full time employment.
“As an apprentice I get to experience some of the wide-ranging roles available in the Housing Executive and I love the variety it offers.
“One of my highlights has been getting the chance to learn how the Housing Executive works closely with other organisations across Belfast.
“Visiting other organisations, like the Shankill Women’s Centre for example, and introducing myself makes me feel like I’m part of a community.
“You can see the positive effect our work has first-hand when you’re out on site and can see the smiles on people’s faces.
“Knowing you’ve contributed to that outcome is very rewarding.”
Anyone interested in becoming an apprentice at the Housing Executive should keep an eye on the:
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