School Leavers on the Road to Success

Three young people are on the road to successful careers with an established Lewes firm after completing their apprenticeships via Sussex Downs College.

Herbert Scott, Chartered Financial Planners established over twenty years ago, have just taken on their fourth apprentice and have never looked back. Sixteen-year-old Ellen Wood is hoping to follow in the footsteps of previous apprentices who have secured full-time positions within the company.

In the ever-competitive jobs market, school and college leavers can find it very hard to get a foot on the career ladder. An apprenticeship allows young people to work towards qualifications in their chosen field while learning on the job. And everyone benefits.

Herbert Scott Director, Kevin Scott, says, "I remember what it was like when I started work with very little experience, and although you never stop learning, your early work experience is probably the most valuable. We believe everyone is capable when they have a goal to aim for – and our apprentices have more than proved us right."

Dan Karlsson, Employer Engagement Account Manager at Sussex Downs College, adds, “We’re pleased to have established a successful relationship with Herbert Scott, matching apprentices to their business. These students are now full-time employees with the firm, which is testament to the quality of apprentices we have coming through the College.”

Client Relationship Manager Jodie Richards (21) is one of three former Sussex Downs College apprentices now employed by Herbert Scott, after completing her apprenticeship in October 2014. Since then she has passed three exams with the Chartered Insurance Institute and achieved the Certificate in Regulated Financial Services. Jodie describes the apprenticeship as "one of the best things I've ever done”.

Samuel Martin has just completed and passed his apprenticeship and is now a full time Administrator at Herbert Scott. Jacques Howell completed his apprenticeship in September 2016 and has just started studying for his Chartered Insurance Institute qualifications.

All Herbert Scott apprenticeships are arranged via the National Apprenticeship Scheme, with students studying through Sussex Downs College. Apprenticeships with Sussex Downs College are fulfilled by Sussex Skills Solutions, the apprenticeship and skills training provider for Sussex, which is a joint collaboration between Sussex Downs College and Sussex Coast College.