National Apprenticeship Week
Doddington Lodge
National Apprenticeship Week
Doddington Lodge
Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week, we’re spotlighting local employers collaborating with Kidderminster College, showcasing their commitment to hiring apprentices and nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals.
From the Employer
Tell us a bit about your business:
Doddington Lodge is a family-owned residential home in the hamlet of Doddington on the Worcestershire/Shropshire border specialising in Dementia care. We are a small residential care home providing 24-hour care and support for up to 25 residents over 65 years old with varying care and support needs. We employ 40 staff members in multiple roles, from Catering, Domestic, Care, Maintenance, Administration, Activities and Management.
Why do you hire Apprentices?
We employ apprentices at Doddington lodge to give individuals the opportunity to learn a trade, choose a career pathway and understand the industry of health and social care. Apprentices play a vital role for us as they impart new knowledge from what they are learning in college and collaborate with ideas of new ways of working.
How has hiring an apprentice helped your organisation?
Doddington Lodge was built in the 1840s and was originally a rectory to St John’s church in Doddington. With the age of the building in mind, Connor, our maintenance Apprentice, provides an integral second pair of hands to support our maintenance manager, Gerald, with the upkeep of the building.
From the Apprentice
Why did you choose an Apprenticeship?
I chose an apprenticeship because it allows me to be able to learn a variety of different skills.
Was the apprenticeship the right choice for you, and why?
This apprenticeship was the right choice for me because I can learn the skills I want at college and work while enjoying myself and working in a positive working environment.
What advice would you give to someone who is unsure whether to take the apprenticeship route?
My advice on apprenticeships would be to give it a go if you are unsure because you get paid to learn and go to college and don’t have to pay anything for it.
What are the benefits of being an apprentice at your organisation?
The benefits of completing an apprenticeship mean I’m working in a positive work environment, being taught various skills, having a good tutor, and being given lots of opportunities to learn and progress.
Has the apprenticeship developed your confidence and/or any other skills?
The apprenticeship has boosted my confidence and my skills in things like my hobby of painting.