Name: Mia Postlethwaite

Job title: Admin Support

Employer: Inspira. I am based at the Barrow office.

Age: 21

Why did you choose an apprenticeship? I chose an apprenticeship as I wanted to be able to earn my own money, but also gain skills, experience and qualifications at the same time.

What did you get out of your apprenticeship? I have gained a Level 2 and 3 Business Administration qualification, but as well as this I have gained so much confidence and professionalism that I know will help me throughout life. I have worked for Inspira for the past 3 years and I love working here; I’m very grateful for the skills and opportunities I’ve gained!

Take us through a typical day: A typical day for me is to work across contracts within Inspira, these being Careers Information Advice and Guidance, National Careers Service, National Citizen Service, The Key and Launchpad. I input and provide data for all these contracts and provide admin support to other staff as required, this could be preparing resources, supporting the use of IT equipment, creating documents, communicating with employers, schools and clients. I also greet customers coming into the office and answer the telephones dealing with any queries that arise.

What do you like most about the job? The environment I work in and the people I work with as we are a very close-knit team. We work with a diverse range of young people and adults of all ages and being able to help them through our work is very rewarding.

What do you like least about the job? I wouldn’t say there is anything I dislike about my job; the office can be fast paced and busy, but I’ve learned to work in this way and enjoy it.

Why did you want to do this job? Administrative work was always something I wanted to do, but never had the opportunity to do until I got my apprenticeship with Inspira.

What jobs have you done previously? The only job I had before starting at Inspira was at a coffee shop in Millom.

Any advice for people wanting to get into your profession? It is a really great profession to be in; some people think it is just a case of sitting at a desk all day, but in reality, it is so much more! I have had the opportunity to gain qualifications and training and the work experience I have received has enabled me to improve myself and be promoted into a permanent admin role.

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