UHI Argyll Modern Apprentice Mia Walker named as finalist in Scottish Apprenticeship Awards
Mia Walker, a 21-year-old from Brodick on the Isle of Arran, has come a long way since starting her journey at Auchrannie Resort.
Mia first started at Auchrannie on a work experience placement and joined the Housekeeping team in 2019 after leaving school. Initially shy and quiet, her confidence has grown since starting the Modern Apprenticeship in Hospitality Services SCQF Level 5 in 2023. She now has an excellent understanding of the ‘why’ of her job, its impact on the organisation and how it contributes to the experience of each Auchrannie guest.
When asked about the benefits of her apprenticeship, Mia said:
“Doing the Modern Apprenticeship has really boosted my confidence and helped me develop my skills. I didn’t feel ready to leave the island so being able to stay at home whilst in a job was a big help.
“At first, I was anxious about doing coursework because of my experience at school but using videos to submit my work made a big difference and I felt totally supported on my learning journey. Successfully achieving the qualification is a great feeling.”
Mia struggled at school because of her dyslexia and felt that further education wasn’t for her, but the flexibility to find a suitable learning style has helped her challenge herself and build on her skills.
Managers say she now embraces new opportunities, undertakes training in her own time and is an integral and valued member of her staff team.
Mia added:
“The apprenticeship has helped me in lots of ways, like being able to plan and organise my time more effectively.
“When I left school, I thought it was going to be hard because I didn’t know what my future would be. The apprenticeship means I have a better idea of what I’m able to achieve, and more confidence to hopefully be able to do it.”
Auchrannie Resort People Development Manager Amanda Pirie said:
“Mia’s personality shines through and she was a delight to work with throughout her apprenticeship and is an integral and very valued member of her staff team. She knows that she can achieve whatever she sets her mind to, and we are so proud of her.
“Apprenticeships are an excellent way for us to recognise the great work that people are doing and ensure they have opportunities to reach their full potential.”
Mia hopes to progress within the organisation and work in different departments in the resort.
Her achievements have led to her being a finalist in the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards in the Modern Apprenticeship of the Year Level 5 category.
Modern Apprenticeships and apprentices are made for business, developed with employers to provide skills in demand. They are jobs open to anyone aged 16 and over who wants to work, learn and earn.
Modern Apprentices spend most of their time learning in the workplace while being supported by a learning provider, like a college, to gain an industry recognised qualification.
With a strong support system through Auchrannie and learning provider, UHI Argyll, Mia’s apprenticeship was built around her learning style, choosing units that focused on her day-to-day work whilst giving her opportunities to challenge herself and build on her skills.
UHI Argyll Modern Apprenticeship Support Officer Alana Mathers said:
“The positive effect the Modern Apprenticeship has had on Mia is undeniable – she has flourished into a vibrant and confident individual.
“It has opened her eyes to the possibilities, and it is wonderful to see how happy and excited she is at what she has achieved.”
The winner of the Modern Apprentice of the Year SCQF Level 5 category will be revealed at the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards, which takes place 27 February in the run up to Scottish Apprenticeship Week.