The Covid-19 pandemic gave rise to a sudden and urgent requirement for more e-learning, right across a spectrum of industries, operations and organisations – and Norse was no exception.
So, when Jack Gurton joined Norse in September 2020 as a Digital Learning Designer, he was only too aware how essential the development of online learning and training had become.
His role is to develop the e-learning training delivered to those within the group.
It sees him liaise with a number of subject matter experts across a wide range of areas to build courses online.
He also has to review and amend existing compliance courses, to ensure Norse staff are knowledgeable and up to date when it comes to essential and accurate information.
Jack explains how his apprenticeship enabled him to focus on his passion while also developing his key competencies:
Why did you choose to complete an apprenticeship?
After graduating from university with a Digital Design degree I took a keen interest in web development and design.
The apprenticeship at Norse gave me the perfect opportunity to start my career doing something that I enjoyed, while also allowing me to put my key competencies to use.
In the future, I would like to continue to work in Learning and Development. I feel my expertise in technology and the digital world can bring some innovative and creative solutions to help deliver learning and training online.
What have been the biggest benefits of your apprenticeship?
The biggest benefit of learning through an apprenticeship for me has been the industry specific knowledge I have gained in Learning and Development. This was previously an area in which I had limited experience – but the apprenticeship has allowed me to grow within my role, gain lots more confidence and undertake the different areas of my job much more easily.
I’ve been able to use lots of the skills I have gained within my day-to-day tasks: these include design considerations, how technology supports learning and delivering face-to-face training, coaching and mentoring.
What have been the highlights of the apprenticeship?
Engaging with and meeting so many different people throughout the process, particularly in coaching and mentoring and being able to make a positive difference to them.
What challenges have you faced?
The biggest challenge has been balancing my apprenticeship with working full time. It has been important to manage my priorities and time to be able to stay on top of all assignments while also still managing to do the work I need to do every day at Norse.
What advice would you give to someone else considering an apprenticeship?
To think very carefully whether an apprenticeship could suit and benefit you as an individual.
Look at your current role, as well as job aspirations and see how an apprenticeship would allow you to progress in your chosen sector.
Sum up your apprenticeship experience in three words:
Enlightening, challenging, worthwhile.
