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CAREER IN SALES: Claire Richardson in the lighting department at Goulds

CLAIRE Richardson from Weymouth always knew that she wanted a career in retail and thanks to an apprenticeship with Paragon Skills she has seen her career flourish.

Claire, 22, joined Goulds Department Store in Dorchester five years ago and has recently completed a Retail Advanced Apprenticeship Level 3 and hopes to continue to develop her retail knowledge and skills with further training opportunities.

She said: "I joined Goulds as a sales assistant and this training programme has really given me the chance to develop my knowledge and confidence.

"It has given me the opportunity to progress in my career and I am now assistant department manager for soft furnishings and lighting."

Claire has particularly benefited from being able to refresh her existing skills whilst developing knowledge essential to her role, in particular a stronger understanding of health and safety in the work place.

She said: "I've really benefited from being able to broaden my skills base and have gained an invaluable insight into running a department.

"I now appreciate the advantages of on the job training for both employer and employee.

"And I actively encourage colleagues to consider a training programme like this."

Designed by employers to meet the needs of employers, a Retail Apprenticeship brings together National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs), key skills, technical certificates specific to the retail area and an understanding of employment rights and responsibilities.

Claire follows in the footsteps of other Goulds employees who have completed similar apprenticeships.

Rebecca Murphy, who is associate director at Goulds, recognises the benefits of enrolling staff onto apprenticeships with Paragon Skills.

She said: "We are delighted with how well Claire has progressed.

"We are eager to invest in our staff and to provide them with opportunities to improve their skills and to support them through their career here with us.

"Enrolling staff on to apprenticeships with Paragon Skills has not only proven to benefit the staff individually, but their colleagues, their department and the business of Goulds as a whole."

Paragon Skills is the largest independent training provider in the South of England and has access to Government funding and subsidies for training.

It also offers guaranteed quality of teaching and assessments to ensure businesses are fully equipped with the skills they need.

n Further information about apprenticeships and funding opportunities can be found at wwww.paragonskills.co.uk or by calling freephone 0800 783 2545.

8:58am Wednesday 16th April 2008

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