A SOLIHULL carer has spoken about how an apprenticeship help build her long-term career.
Amelia‑May Perks has marked National Apprenticeship Week, which runs from February 9 to 15, by telling her story of progression in the industry and challenging the misconception that the sector lacks career pathways.
At just 27, Amelia-May Perks has already spent eight years building a meaningful and ambitious career at Birchmere House Care Home, part of Avery Healthcare.
She joined the home on in February 2018, aged 19, as a Carer after completing a Level 3 extended diploma in Health & Social Care at college, and she has never looked back.
During college, Amelia felt that university was presented as the only natural next step, but she never felt it was right for her.
Work experience with her godmother, a children’s nurse, introduced her to healthcare, and she quickly realised that supporting older people was where her interest lay.
She said: “There is something incredibly meaningful about making someone comfortable, safe, and valued in later life.”
Despite her interest in care, Amelia did not know much about apprenticeships until she joined Avery and began working closely with the Learning and Development team as a home trainer.
She delivered first aid, manual handling, and supported e-learning, and it was during this time that she was encouraged to explore formal qualifications
Her apprenticeship journey began when she reached out to discuss a change in apprenticeship providers, and she soon realised how many opportunities were available to her.
Amelia has completed her Level 4 Lead Practitioner in Adult Care apprenticeship in Lead Adult Care and has been accepted onto the Adult Care Level 5 apprenticeship, which is a significant achievement, as Level 5 typically requires learners to already be in a managerial role.
Her long-term ambition is clear.
She plans to complete her Level 5 qualification, become a Registered Nurse, register with the CQC as a Care Manager, and eventually progress to deputy manager and then home manager.
She said: “Avery has always supported my development. I would not be here if there were not opportunities like this. There is a stigma that there is no progression in care, but that could not be further from the truth.”
For Amelia, apprenticeships offer the perfect balance of learning and earning.
She said: “They are flexible, you can earn money while you study, and the company invests in you. It is student-led, and you get out what you put in.”
As well as her academic achievements Amelia has won Avery’s Learning and Development Champion Award in both 2023 and 2024, attending gala events where testimonials from colleagues were read out in her honour.
She has also encouraged around ten colleagues to start apprenticeships, and her message to anyone considering one is simple.
For anyone considering an apprentice Amelia said: “Do it. You are never too old to learn.
“Apprenticeships help you become the best version of yourself for the residents. I was anxious and full of self-doubt when I started, but the confidence it has given me is incredible.”
