Stockport’s Vernon Building Society welcomes its first apprentices

Stockport’s Vernon Building Society has welcomed the first apprentices onto its new apprenticeship scheme.

James Corrigan, a former student of Astley Sports College in Dukinfield and Melissa Fyfe who attended Aquinas College in Stockport are paving the way for the society.

They have each embarked on apprenticeships in business administration in partnership with specialist apprenticeship provider, Damar Training.

During their apprenticeships, Melissa and James will gain exposure to each main area of the business, getting an insight into the workings of the branch network, marketing, mortgages, IT, compliance, finance, HR and support services.

On this career developing opportunity, Melissa comments: “Working in each part of the business is an amazing opportunity as it helps you work out what you want to do with your career. Until I saw this apprenticeship, I had no idea that I would be able to achieve high-quality work experience and a nationally-recognised qualification without having to go to university”.

James says: “I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do after school so decided to apply for an apprenticeship. It was really quick and easy to apply for the apprenticeship with Damar and I am excited to have started such a varied and interesting role”.

The Vernon will be working closely with its apprenticeship provider partner, Damar Training, itself also a long-established Stockport-based business. For the next year, a Damar trainer will be working closely with Melissa and James, helping to develop their skills and knowledge and supporting them with the training and assessment that forms a key part of the apprenticeship.

Caroline Shard, The Vernon’s Senior Customer Service Manager and Melissa’s mentor says: “Our apprenticeship scheme is an accurate representation of working life unlike college or university. We are delighted to have Melissa and James on board with us and are positive that they will go far and become extremely valued members of the team”.

Angela Smith, The Vernon’s HR and Communications Manager says: “As the result of a taster day held at our head office, Melissa and James were very calm and relaxed on their first day which is always a good sign for the future. Before committing to their apprenticeships, Melissa and James were able to come into our offices, meet their mentors and work colleagues and have a tour around the different departments. We are looking forward to the next 12 months with enthusiasm”.

Pictured from l to r: Apprentice, Melissa Fyfe with The Vernon’s Senior Customer Service Manager and Mentor, Caroline Shard and fellow apprentice, James Corrigan