Judith Kabeya was studying for a degree in Human Resources Management at London Metropolitan University, but unfortunately dropped out after two years. Following this she began working in recruitment but still had an interest in HR and visited the local JobCentre Plus who introduced her to 'Step Ahead' - a career boot camp.

The HR Manager looked through Judith's CV and noticed that she had studied Human Resources and in addition wanted to continue her career in HR so, Judith was offered an interview and was successful in securing a post as an Apprentice Human Resources Advisor. 

The apprenticeship was part of the Guys and St Thomas NHS Foundation Trusty Apprentice Programme and Judith's course was in Business Administration level 3 for twelve months. Not only did Judith complete her modules in Business Admin, but completed her Functional Skills, Employability Skills and ICT. 

Judith is based in Guys Hospital in London Bridge and is a UNISON member. The UNISON Branch office at the hospital supported her via the Education Officer and branch ULRs as well as offering coaching and Pastoral Support. Judith completed her Apprenticeship in September 2015. 

The training Judith took part in offered a wide range of experiences and the toughest task to date was to prepare interviews for an Employment Tribunal. One of the employees was extremely angry and frustrated with Judith for calling them to attend an investigative hearing. Judith's training had allowed her to stay professional even under the very extreme circumstances that she found herself in because this had never happened to her before. 

Judith said:

I never thought an Apprenticeship could get me where I am today. An Apprenticeship not only gives you knowledge but also experience. I would not have done an Apprenticeship a year ago but now I'm finished and earning good money too. At the same time I'm not finished with learning yet, the NHS are now funding me to complete the CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) which starts in January 2016."

Oreleo Du Cran, SERTUC unionlearn Apprenticeship Union Support Officer added:

The NHS Trust's Apprenticeship Programme supports all the elements of the unionlearn Apprenticeship Charter and it is so refreshing to learn that not only has Judith been offered a job but further training at a higher level too. The Functional Skills element of her training has underpinned her learning and this is why she is able to move onto higher learning straight after completing her training."