Developing Employability Skills: Claire’s Journey at Boston Energy
When Claire first came to HBTC, she was ready for a fresh start but wasn’t sure where to begin. After completing college and spending time working in a takeaway, she knew she wanted to rebuild her confidence, update her skills and find a role that offered real career progression.
Through HBTC’s employability skills course and apprenticeship programme, Claire has been able to do exactly that, growing her abilities, finding her strengths and building a career she is truly proud of.
Today, as she reaches the end of her Level 3 Customer Service Apprenticeship with Boston Energy, her journey stands as a testament to what happens when determination meets the right support.
Building Strong Foundations: The Employability Skills Course
Before starting her apprenticeship, Claire took part in our Level 1 Employability Skills course to refresh her knowledge and prepare for an office-based role. After being out of education for a while, the course gave her exactly the boost she needed.
“The employability skills course was useful for me, as I had been out of college for two years and working at a takeaway, which does not require the same skills as administrative job roles do. It was a good refresh, and it taught me a lot.”
Claire’s tutor, Dorian, saw her progress firsthand and noticed just how quickly she began to grow in confidence and ability:
“During her time on the Employability Skills course, I saw Claire’s knowledge and confidence grow exponentially. By the end of the course, she had developed her IT skills, written and verbal communication skills, and overall self-confidence.”
Claire learned practical skills that she now uses daily, including understanding tax and pensions, and most importantly, building her confidence with Excel, which has become a big part of her role.
Her tutor also explained just how powerful this short programme can be:
“The employability skills course has helped many learners develop or enhance the skills needed to secure an apprenticeship; despite it only being a three-week course, the difference in some learners’ self-confidence is night and day. I couldn’t recommend the course enough!”
Starting her Apprenticeship Journey
Claire first came across the apprenticeship opportunity through LinkedIn and was supported by HBTC with a range of job options. Following the liquidation of her previous workplace, she decided an apprenticeship would help her gain new qualifications and practical experience.
She interviewed for two roles in the same week: one at a school and another at Boston Energy. After researching both companies, she felt drawn to Boston Energy’s values and opportunities.
“I searched up both companies and realised I liked the sound of Boston Energy and what they had to offer. I attended the Boston Energy interview first and got the job instantly”
Although she was unsure what to expect from the apprenticeship, she quickly discovered just how valuable it would be.
Growth, Skills and Newfound Confidence
Throughout her apprenticeship, Claire’s confidence has soared. She has grown from someone who preferred sending messages over Teams to someone who now communicates comfortably with customers, technicians, and colleagues both in person and over the phone.
“This apprenticeship has helped me to find and gain confidence in all aspects… I am not afraid to add my opinion now. I never used to be confident enough to get up and speak to colleagues, so I have improved drastically.”
Achievements and Highlights
One of Claire’s standout achievements has been maintaining a compliance rate of over 98% for technicians – an impressive goal to reach during her first year.
She also challenged herself by stepping into a completely new team. What initially felt like being “thrown in the deep end” became an opportunity to shine. She learned how to manage training bookings independently and is now the go-to person for training-related queries within her department.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
With her apprenticeships nearly complete, Claire feels well-prepared for the next stage of her career.
“This apprenticeship has guided me to a future I never thought I could have… It has helped me progress and build confidence in myself, which I know will be a great help for my future aspirations.”
She plans to continue her journey with Boston Energy, with hopes of progressing into roles such as Project Coordinator, Manager, or within another department where she can further develop her skills and experience.
Claire’s Advice to Future Apprentices
When asked if she would recommend an apprenticeship, Claire’s answer was clear:
“It is a great way to further your skills and build confidence. If you are willing to work hard and want an improvement in both your work skills and personal skills, I would definitely recommend taking on a customer service apprenticeship.”
A Journey Worth Celebrating
Claire’s journey from employability training to thriving within a large, fast-growing organisation shows the power of apprenticeships in opening doors, building confidence, and transforming futures.
HBTC is proud to have been part of Claire’s journey, and we look forward to seeing where her career takes her next.
If you’re a learner ready to start your career journey, or a business looking to grow your team, get in touch with us on 01482 211714. Or, check out our current apprenticeship vacancies and take the first step. We’re here to help you succeed!
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Emily Simpson
Emily is our Digital Marketing/Learner Engagement Apprentice and is involved with all things social media and content development. She is also responsible for attending career events and maintaining relationships with local schools and colleges.