Reflections of an Apprentice

Jessica Capper joined RWA in October 2018 as apprentice, studying for a Level 3 Diploma in Business Administration via Torfaen Training. Having successfully completed her apprenticeship, alongside her role as Design and Content Assistant, she has now been made a permanent member of staff at RWA.

Here’s what she had to say about her apprenticeship and her role at RWA:

“I started as an apprentice for RWA back in 2018. Fresh out of university, I knew that I needed to offer a varied range of skills so as not to restrict myself into one niche. I already had a knack for technical writing, but I also felt I could utilise my skills in creative design. Fast forward to present day, and I am relieved to say that the hard work has paid off.

As a Design and Content Assistant, my role is to provide support in the creation of new e-learning content as well as update existing modules available on the Aviva Development Zone.  I also assist in the writing of technical content and the production of articles for Insight – like this one!

Mental health is a recurring theme in most of the articles I write for Insight and often makes an appearance in certain courses on the Dev Zone. As someone who suffers from anxiety, it can be a daily struggle not to overthink everything, whether it is talking to colleagues or working on simple tasks. It is reassuring to have that sort of representation in the workplace, and to be able to support others going through the same problems is a reward in itself.

Presently, the biggest challenge is to think of ways to expand and develop courses that are both engaging and stimulating. Animation had already been used in existing courses, but recently I have been looking into how they can improve on the courses in a way that a standard “click-Next” option may not provide.

Scenario-based modules for example, give e-learners a chance to interact with a course. Users can put themselves in the perspective of their animated counterparts and play a part in scenarios they might come across in everyday life. With scenario modules. I can use my overthinking to an advantage, as every positive or negative outcome is considered in detail.

Since starting my apprenticeship, my confidence has grown in leaps and bounds. I was already a dedicated worker, but now I am no longer afraid to step outside my comfort zone and try new things to develop my skills.

With the UK lockdown restrictions in place, it is business as usual at RWA – albeit in a more domestic setting. New courses are being drafted every week and we are continuing to provide support to all our clients. Be sure to keep an eye out for our new remote working courses over the coming weeks.”