e Rising Stars WINNER WINNER


KIMBERLEY STEER SKYBREAK, GATWICK AIRPORT


Kimberley is completing a two-year customer services apprenticeship at Skybreak at Gatwick Airport with N&B Training. She began her apprenticeship in March after completing a Level 2 diploma in travel and tourism at Sussex Coast College


During my diploma course I learned the basics including airport codes and some customer service skills, but


rather than continuing at college, I thought I would look at learning on the job. Initially I looked at roles with hotels and travel agents, but they required experience, so the idea of doing an apprenticeship really appealed to me. I have always been a people person, so


focusing on customer service made sense, and I had heard of Skybreak and thought that an apprenticeship would allow me to learn more about airline systems. At Skybreak we are often the first point of contact


“I have


always been a people


person, so


focusing on customer service made sense”


for passengers, particularly when they are experiencing disruption, so my role involves responding to emails and calls, talking to people face-to-face and liaising with handling agents. As an apprentice we have guidance from our team leaders, and 20% of our time is study time which includes completing coursework and going through assessments on the job. I am looking forward to staying with the company. I really look up to my team leader who also started out as an apprentice.


JOEL MATTHEWMAN THOMAS COOK, WOMBWELL


Joel started his two-year travel consultant apprenticeship in July, fulfilling an ambition to become a travel agent. He joined Thomas Cook straight from school


I have always wanted to become a travel agent, so when I came towards the end of my time at school I went into


my local store and asked if there were any opportunities. She explained about the online application, interview process and the apprenticeship scheme. I was very excited when I found out that I’d been successful. I did an initial two-day workshop at head office which introduced me to the company, including the products, brands, vision and values, and the apprenticeship scheme. In store I have an hour a day study time away


from the counter to work on tasks from my action plan which are set by my apprenticeship assessor. I complete a set series of modules each week on


“Getting the


apprenticeship with Thomas Cook was


an amazing


opportunity. I’ve already made 10


our Thomas Cook Academy e-learning system, and I then compile work evidence which is assessed as I go online. I have a visit from my assessor every six weeks or so. Getting the apprenticeship with Thomas Cook was an amazing opportunity. I am really enjoying it as it allows me to sell and train at the same time. I’ve already made 10 bookings in my first month. I am looking forward to completing my apprenticeship and becoming a full-time travel consultant.


bookings in my first month”


31 August 2017 travelweekly.co.uk 31


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