The Sheffield College - People Team

We recently had a chat with our very own Sue Booth, Senior People Business Partner, to learn more about how their own People Team is using Apprenticeships to strengthen their workforce, support succession planning, and create meaningful progression routes for employees at every stage of their career.

Why did The Sheffield College choose to use itself as a training provider?

Sue has worked with the People Team for the past five years and has witnessed the positive impact of Apprenticeships first-hand.

“I’d seen several team members successfully complete their Level 3 HR Apprenticeship through The Sheffield College,” she explained. “The support and direction they received was brilliant, and it’s helped them progress into permanent roles. That gave me real confidence in the programme – and the college as a training provider.”

Which Apprenticeships is currently in use?

The Sheffield College People Team currently enrolls employees on the CIPD Level 3 HR Apprenticeship, helping them gain the foundational knowledge and practical experience to build long-term careers in Human Resources.

What qualities are you looking for in an Apprentice?

“We look for someone who demonstrates positive behaviours and is adaptable across the different areas of our People function,” Sue said. “Our aim is to give Apprentices a broad base of knowledge so they can become part of our future succession planning. Communication skills are also vital, especially in a people-centred team like ours.”

What benefits has hiring an Apprentice had on the business?

“It’s had a really positive impact,” she noted. “We’ve gained a valuable team member who contributes to projects and day-to-day tasks, and we’ve been able to plan ahead for permanent roles by developing talent from within.”

How are Apprenticeships helping to grow your wider team?

Sue shared how Apprenticeships have become a key part of development strategy at The Sheffield College:

“We use them not only to bring in new talent at Level 3 but also to help current employees grow. Some of our permanent team members are now doing Level 5 and Level 7 HR Apprenticeships, so we’re supporting staff at every stage.”

What skills do you think Apprentices develop the most?

Alongside technical skills linked to HR, Sue emphasised the importance of “people skills”:

“Networking, teamwork, professionalism, and communication, all essential in a successful People Team.”

What advice would you give to employers taking on their first Apprentice?

“My advice? Go for it, but be ready to invest the time in supporting and developing them. You’ll absolutely reap the rewards.”

And what about those considering becoming an Apprentice?

“It’s a brilliant opportunity to carve out a career in something you’re genuinely interested in. You’ll learn the theory while gaining practical experience. It takes hard work, but it’s definitely worth it.”

Any final advice for businesses considering hiring an Apprentice?

“Take the time to work closely with the Apprenticeships+ team to find the right person. It’s worth the effort, especially when you start seeing their development and impact.”

What’s it like working alongside The Sheffield College?

“The support has been excellent at every stage,” Sue said. “From advertising and recruitment to the regular progress reviews, we’ve always felt guided and informed.”

“I’m so pleased with our HR Apprentice and the progress they’re making, it’s incredibly rewarding to watch their journey unfold.”

Click here to find out how we can work with your business and discover our wide range of Apprenticeships.