Louise Morrison was a pupil at Dunoon Grammar School, when an opportunity arose for her to do a foundation apprenticeship at Clyde Cottage Nursery.
Fast forward two years and she is now doing a Modern Apprenticeship, working with the nursery full time.
Louise said: “A foundation apprenticeship is a great idea if you’re still in school and want to learn more about what you are interested in doing when you leave. I gained so much knowledge and knew that I wanted to work in a nursery when I left school as a result. It also enabled me to an SVQ2 (SVQF level 6) in children and young people while still working through my Highers.
“When it was time for me to leave school I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do. I didn’t know if I wanted to go to college or apply for a job. I then saw that Clyde Cottage Nursery was advertising for a Modern Apprentice and I thought I might as well apply and see what happens, and I got it.
“I started my Modern Apprenticeship in August 2021, aged 18, and this has allowed me to gain experience working with children, while working towards a qualification and earning a wage. I am currently still working through my Modern apprenticeship, and I won’t be qualified until May 2023, but it’s the best thing I could have done.
“There are some great apprenticeship opportunities with Argyll and Bute Council. I’ve learned a lot during my apprenticeship; I’ve developed personally and I’ve been supported by my team throughout.”