You may think a job in retail does not require much training.

But you’d be wrong.

Bo Lin, owner of Baby and Beyond, in Braintree, says: “While we have lots of customers coming into the shop, an increasing number of people shop online, so staff need to understand how retail works through our website and Facebook page.”

Bo recenty took on apprentice Sophie Toleman, who is studying for her Level 2 in Retail Skills.

While customer service is a big part of her jobs, so is data handling.

Bo says: “Sophie has been with me for about two months and she is learning really well. As well as customer service, she is learning how to handle data online. Retail assistants now need to have computer skills.”

Sophie, 19, only had experience working in a betting shop before she began her apprenticeship two months ago.

Sophie, who attended Greensward Academy in Hockley before moving to Braintree, says: “I have always wanted to work in retail, but without experience it’s hard. By studying an apprenticeship in Retail Skills I can get the experience and training I need.

“My training also doesn’t require classroom time, so I work six days a week and my tutors come into the shop to assess me.

“I would advise anyone in my position to consider an apprenticeship too.”

Sophie’s training will last between 12 and 18 months, depending on whether she decides to continue to a Level 3 in Retail Skills, which includes management training.

For Bo, taking on an apprentice was the natural thing to do.

Having opened her shop in the High Street just over a year ago Bo decided to take on an apprentice instead of an experienced sales assistant.

She explains: “Apprentices work hard, they are willing to learn and you can shape them to meet your business needs.

“An experienced person may not do the job as you want them to because they are used to doing it a different way, but for me it was important to have someone who would do things to suit my business.”

Bo believes apprenticeships are the way to go not only for young people, but for businesses too.


COUNCIL CAN HELP YOU


CHRIS Siddall, cabinet member for prosperity and growth on Braintree District Council, says the push to encourage apprenticeships was driven by the number of teenagers and young people who were not in education or training, known as Neets.

He says: “In 2009 we had 900 Neets in the district. We have cut that by half to 450 today.”

The council helped place four apprentices in recent months, including Sophie. Young people interested in undertaking an apprenticeship can contact the council, which can put them in touch with organisations and training bodies. Call 01376 552525