Modern Apprentice - Lewis Johnstone-Avolio
Work-based training allows you to work towards a vocational qualification relevant to your employment, so you can learn while you earn and gain a recognised qualification.
Lewis Johnstone-Avolio has been doing an SVQ in Hospitality Supervision and Leadership SCQF Level 7 at The Dalmore Inn and Restaurant. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, Lewis was furloughed from the restaurant. As he was preparing to get ready to go back to work, he told us how he got on during lockdown.
Completing an Apprenticeship and working full time can be difficult to juggle – can you describe any challenges you had on the way, and how did you overcome them?
There were not too many challenges that were in the way, the course ran smoothly and I was always updated well with how my progress was going.
Has there been any stand out/memorable moments from your course?
There were not any stand out moments, as it was all-round enjoyable.
Any other achievements you gained on your journey?
Managing to get my personal licence has been an extra bonus.
Can you describe how COVID-19 affected your job? How did you cope with lockdown, and being on furlough?
My job was affected fully as the restaurant I work at had to shut down for just shy of four months. Being under the restrictions of lockdown, was an unusual and surprising situation to be in. However, I took advantage of the time I was given to help out doing daily jobs - such as painting the fence, gate and shed; deep cleaning every room in the house; going out for walks with my sister’s dog, as she had to continue working while I was off; other exercise like cycling, running and workouts; helping with the cooking and learning more when I can; watching television, all while taking my time. Being on furlough was a bonus as well, as I would not have expected to have an 80% income for the entire time.
Hospitality will face some of the biggest changes for customers, how different will your workplace be? Have you been involved in the new plans and training?
It was not too difficult to continue working towards my VQ, as there was not a great deal of work that was still required. However, I did find that I was allowing myself too many ‘days off’ and postponing work for the next day when I should have just completed it instantly, since there was time, which was foolish on my behalf.
How good was it to complete your Modern Apprenticeship, and gain your certificate?
It was brilliant to find out that all the course work had been completed.
What do you think about the style of teaching and the support you received from your trainer, employer and assessors?
The support and help received from everyone involved could not have been any better. I cannot fault it.
How do you feel your apprenticeship will help you in your career progression?
It will help a great deal as there are many situations and information that I learned while on the course that will benefit the way I work. This will help my progressions as my knowledge of the hospitality environment has multiplied greatly.
What advice would you give to those considering an apprenticeship?
Go for it, and enjoy it!
Where are you now?
Right now, is the day before I officially go back into work after lockdown, and I am looking forward to get back into it.
