Case Study

A Foundation Apprenticeship led to a former Woodfarm High pupil landing a job with one of the world’s leading technology companies. 

Ferva Anjum completed her Foundation Apprenticeship (FA) in business skills during S5 and S6 and has since progressed onto a Modern Apprenticeship with Dell.

Even CEO and founder, Michael Dell, who recently visited the company’s Glasgow hub, commented specifically on her success. That recognition continued after she reached the finals of last year’s Scottish Apprenticeship Awards.

Ferva, from Thornliebank, was delighted: “I feel very shocked and honoured to be a finalist – it’s a massive surprise and I’m actually really proud of myself,” she said.

FAs are designed for pupils in S5 and S6 and can be taken over one or two years. Pupils spend time out of the classroom with a learning provider and in a workplace to gain a qualification at the same level as a Higher – which is recognised by all of Scotland’s universities and colleges.

Having found out about the FA through her pastoral support teacher, Ferva jumped at the chance to get involved with work-based learning at Dell after spending time at City of Glasgow College.

The 18-year-old explained: “As soon as I heard Dell was an option, I knew that was where I wanted to spend my placement. I never enjoyed studying and wasn’t sure about university. I was keen to get into the world of work and the Foundation Apprenticeship provided me with that opportunity.”

After completing the FA, Ferva was then offered the opportunity to work, learn and earn at Dell through a Modern Apprenticeship job – something she never expected to happen.#

“I wanted to stay at Dell but felt like my initial lack of confidence could be an issue. Even looking into someone’s eyes was a challenge when I first started. However, by the end of the Foundation Apprenticeship, I was able to deliver a presentation to the leadership team.”

Ferva isn’t the only one who noticed the benefits of work-based learning. “My parents keep saying how big a difference there is in me.

“They’re really happy with how much I’ve grown and delighted that the Foundation Apprenticeship led on to a job at Dell.”

Upon completion of her Modern Apprenticeship, Ferva plans to go on and become a sales rep within the organisation. She said; “The best thing about my apprenticeship is undoubtedly the support from my colleagues and managers – everyone’s been really happy to help me and answer any questions.”

Ferva added: “The Foundation Apprenticeship was a great way for me to gain experience and ultimately a job. I would highly recommend it to other pupils considering their options for the future.”

Dell’s inside sales senior manager, Varry McMenemy, said: “Creating a talent pipeline is one of the most critical factors in our continued success at Dell and the Foundation Apprenticeship has helped us do that.

“When Ferva joined us she really lacked confidence however by the end of her placement she had excelled, and we were delighted to employ her as a Modern Apprentice.”

For further information about how work-based learning could help you, your staff or your business visit Apprenticeships.Scot.