THE deadline is fast approaching to apply for UK Boardroom Apprentice 2024. Applications for the 12-month unique board learning, development and placement programme close on Monday, October 9th at 3pm.
Organisers the programme are calling on people from across Wales to apply for the next class of UK Boardroom Apprentices.
Following a successful first year in 2023 the UK Boardroom Apprentice returned to enable people who would like to serve on a public or third sector board to learn and gain the experience that they need to take that step.
Boardroom Apprentice founder Eileen Mullan: “One of the important targets we have within the UK Boardroom Apprentice programme is to ensure that people from across the country get the opportunity to apply.
“That is why we are calling for people from across Wales to consider how they can best serve their community and the wider society by becoming a Boardroom Apprentice.”
Since its inception in 2017, the programme has seen 372 Boardroom Apprentices embark on their personal journey to serve on a public or third sector board.
Speaking of her experience, Boardroom Apprentice Jennifer McMahon, who was placed with the Swansea-based Independent Monitoring Authority said: “The programme showed me so many new experiences. From communication, to patience, understanding and confidence, I really grew as a person.
“Between the network system, experiences and support available, the UK Boardroom Apprentice has been life changing for me in building my confidence, tackling anxiety and overcoming imposter syndrome.
“Feeling proud of myself and as though I could achieve something big has been something I struggled with, but this programme has made me feel like I do deserve a place and that I will go on to do great things.
“I feel proud and incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and the doors the UK Boardroom Apprentice has opened for me. I really recommend anyone who can to apply.”
Open to those aged 18 or over from all backgrounds and all abilities, the programme seeks to enable a wider diversity of individuals to play their part within boardrooms, allowing those without board experience to enhance their knowledge and understanding through in-depth learning and support.
Ms Mullan explained: “Boardroom Apprentice was created to deliver diversity, create change, and realise aspirations.
“Our vision is simple – to bridge the gap between aspiration and reality. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to join a host board for a year to learn how they can bring fresh perspectives and diverse thinking to boardrooms across the UK.”
Boardroom Apprentice prides itself on the support system in place for those taking part in the programme. Upon being assigned a host board, Boardroom Apprentices are paired with a Board Buddy who aids with their progression throughout the twelve-month experience, as well as being provided with a suite of learning days.
Ms Mullan added: “I decided to create a programme that brings together three key elements – knowledge, experience and support.
“Over a twelve-month window Boardroom Apprentices will get practical board experience, a suite of learning days and support to fully equip them to serve on a board in the public or third sector in the future.
“Being a Boardroom Apprentice is a gift with the expectation that you give it back. Being a Boardroom Apprentice is about preparing you for public service, which is about you playing your part.”
During the year, each Boardroom Apprentice has to attend eight learning days on topics such as finance, communication and governance along with the board placement on a board of their choice.
Joining the programme for the first time is Natural Resources Wales (NRW), a government sponsored body responsible for the management of Welsh natural resources.
Applications for next year’s UK Boardroom Apprentice programme close on Monday October 9, 2023.
For more information on the UK Boardroom Apprentice go to boardroomapprentice.com/uk and to find out more about how to apply, go to boardroomapprentice.com/how-to-apply
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