Beth Pattinson – Apprentice Receptionist, Customer Service

University or full time college never appealed to me. I enjoyed my time at school but I wanted to get into the world of work. I wanted a better understanding of what it would be like to work in an office and also to learn on the job, so an apprenticeship was for me.

Riverside is an amazing organisation to work for. There are so many sections I have had the opportunity to experience and it has given me an indication of what I would like to do in my career.

Everyone at Riverside is kind, friendly and welcoming. Within my first week I felt like I had been here months. Getting this apprenticeship has changed my life. I feel more mature and it has given me so much more independence.

The money has had a huge impact on my life. It has helped me to save for a car, go on holidays, buy new clothes, everything I love doing.

My apprenticeship has been the best thing to happen to me; it has opened up so many doors for my future within an excellent organisation like Riverside.

Connor Bulman, Apprentice Administrator (Repair Line)

I enjoy doing hands-on work and putting my knowledge into application, as I learn much better that  way. I wanted to get more experience of what it is like to work with computer systems within a working environment, as this is the career I want to pursue.

Riverside is an excellent company to work for as it gives a great overall feel of the office environment. It gives a much a greater understanding of the overall work vibe, a lot better than a smaller company would.

I gained the job through the agency RWP, which offers apprenticeships with many companies and offers an excellent apprenticeship programme, which is 99% hands on.

I feel more mature from being in the work place and have more independence. The money has allowed me to buy more driving lessons, save for a car, buy the latest clothes, technology and everything I love.

An apprenticeship is an excellent experience, opening up lots of different doorways for the future.