8th February 2023 Bridge - Ben's story
Ben applied to be part of The Talent Foundry’s Bridge to M&G programme in January 2022 after a heads up from one of his school teachers. He was then supported by The Talent Foundry develop a range of employability skills such as presentation and communication skills, team working, building his CV, interview techniques and how best to showcase his talent potential.
Ben told us, “I enjoyed the openness of the opportunity compared to school, and being treated like an adult. It helped me to get to know M&G as a company and grow the knowledge I needed through 1:1 and group work to apply to their apprenticeship programme.”
He also told us he loved the adventure of the experience.
He put all his energy into the application process, which took four months and was a welcome change from school and exams. It was a ‘huge relief’ and felt very ‘rewarding’ when he found out he’d been successful in securing an apprenticeship role with M&G despite the stiff competition.
Ben says he felt supported by The Talent Foundry throughout the process – if he had a question he’d just email or call and someone would get back to him straight away.
“The help along the way and the relationships I built were one of the best things.”
The last piece of advice that Ben wanted to share was, “I’d encourage anyone to apply to The Bridge Programme – even if you’re not 100% sure on what you want to do. It’s a good insight into work and industry. I’m much more confident now with a load of transferrable skills.”
Thanks Ben – and good luck for the future!