We caught up with Richard Bradley, an IT Consultant at C.I.KNOW, who we worked with to help find the best apprentices and apprenticeship programmes to suit their business.
Since deciding to take on an apprentice and work with us as their training provider, their first apprentice, Chloe Auger, has gone on to become a finalist for the BCS IT & Digital Apprenticeship Awards 2024 under the category IT Infrastructure, Networks & Support Apprentice of the Year.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your organisation?
I have had over 25 years of experience working in technology, mostly with large FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) multinational companies.
Now, I work as an IT consultant at C.I.KNOW - a boutique IT consultancy which specialises in supporting CIOs (Chief Information Officers). This has ranged from developing their strategic agenda, running design thinking workshops, project managing, running large cloud-based programmes, and providing specialist resources.
What made you look into apprenticeships?
As a growing IT consultancy with a large amount of experience, we wanted to ensure the development of a pipeline of new talent at C.I.KNOW, that we could help support and develop.
With a growing business, this means that we can hire apprentices and offer them opportunities to start their careers, which also positively impacts our business quickly.
“Kaplan has been a great partner for C.I.KNOW in our apprenticeship programme, and we would certainly recommend them to businesses who are looking to take on apprentices.”
How did you find the recruitment process with Kaplan?
The whole recruitment process is very straightforward. We worked with Kaplan on the profile of the apprentice we were looking for. We did take our time to interview each candidate, but this has rewarded us with two great apprentices so far.
“Kaplan did all of the hard work finding candidates that aligned with our requirements.”
What programme is your apprentice studying and how do you feel it’s added value to the business?
Chloe Auger (finalist at the BCS IT & Digital Apprenticeship Awards) is studying for a Level 3 Information Communication Technician apprenticeship, which runs for 18 months.
We take great care to ensure that Chloe has the right level of knowledge and support for her main engagement, which is supporting all of the Formula One events for our client - a flagship contract for them.
What are the benefits of an apprenticeship for you as an employer?
A key benefit of having an apprentice is that we have someone on the team who thinks differently and addresses problems from a different angle. Chloe has also been a quick learner and has been able to develop really quickly. It also offers C.I.KNOW a unique talent acquisition opportunity for us and effectively uses the grant offered by the government for apprentices.
How have you found having an apprentice?
It’s early days as Chloe started working with C.I.KNOW in September 2023, and we have only recently recruited our second apprentice in April 2024. However, we have found that they quickly integrate into our existing team and start making valuable contributions. I would caution that having apprentices can require significant time investment, and a programme to support them which needs to be planned and managed. But we are committed to that at C.I.KNOW.
“We can hire apprentices and offer them opportunities to start their careers, which also positively impacts our business quickly.”
How do you feel about having your apprentice shortlisted for ICT apprentice of the year?
We’re all really proud of the recognition that Chloe has received by being shortlisted. Although we knew she was doing a great job, it’s still great to be externally recognised.
Would you recommend apprenticeships to other employers?
Yes, we would. But you need a strong apprentice support programme within your organisation and the ability to provide the necessary time and support required. If you are willing to do this, then taking on apprentices can be rewarding for both parties.
How would you describe your relationship with Kaplan in three words?
Partnership, people, and training
Would you recommend Kaplan to other businesses?
Kaplan has been a great partner for C.I.KNOW in our apprenticeship programme, and we would certainly recommend them to businesses who are looking to take on apprentices.
Find out more about apprenticeships
If you’re looking to grow your workplace and boost the skills of existing or new colleagues, speak to our team who can guide you through the process.