Matthew Burton, 17, was headhunted whilst studying a level 2 ICT course at St Helens College and is now working towards his dream career as an ICT Technician.
Matthew, who is from Rainhill, had not previously considered an apprenticeship. He joined the IT course at St Helens College from De La Salle High School. With strong grades in his first year of study, and having gained some relevant work experience, Matthew was approached by one of his tutors to discuss an apprenticeship vacancy within the College’s IT support team.
After researching the role that was due to start in September, Matthew spent his summer break preparing his application, cover letter and working on his interview skills.
Following interview, Matthew was quickly chosen as the ideal candidate and secured the apprenticeship. He is now studying a level 3 qualification in Technical Support whilst working full-time as an ICT Technician at St Helens College.
Talking about his experience within the role, Matthew said “Since starting the apprenticeship at St Helens College, I have always received plenty of help and support when I’m in need of some assistance. I feel like I’ve built a good relationship with the people who I work with and I feel lucky to work with such a brilliant team.”
A typical day for Matthew consists of helping individual staff members with any computer or telephone issues they may encounter and he enjoys picking up key skills in a busy environment. Matthew aspires to continue and progress within the Technical Support team. He would recommend an apprenticeship to anyone who likes to keep busy.
He said “An apprenticeship opens so many doors for you as an individual. It has enabled me to learn so many skills and to gain so much knowledge. The highlight of my apprenticeship so far has to be being given the chance to gain extra qualifications based on my job role as at ICT Technician. I have currently been taking Microsoft Office Specialist exams to improve my skills on all Microsoft applications.”
Speaking of Matthew’s success in his current role, Line Manager Phil Caton said “Matthew is very approachable for both staff and students; his enthusiasm to learn and his polite manner have made him become a valued member of our ICT Technical support team within a short space of time.”
If you wish to follow in Matthew’s footsteps, take a look at the current vacancies at www.sthelens.ac.uk/jobshop
