Thursday's apprentice: Shan McCarthy
Name: Shan McCarthy
Age: 19
Job title: Neighbourhood governance apprentice
Department: Neighbourhood governance
How long have you been on your apprenticeship?
Six months
What made you decide to apply to become an apprentice and why at Ealing specifically?
The idea of learning whilst earning money is what caught my attention to apply for an apprenticeship with Ealing Council. It has given me an opportunity to prove not only to myself, but to everyone I work with that young people can focus and are not afraid of hard work.
What were you doing before you began the apprenticeship?
Before I began my apprenticeship I had been out of a job for six months. Searching for a job can become quite boring and demeaning as there are not many opportunities out there, which is why I was relieved when I was given the opportunity to become an apprentice at Ealing Council. It’s a foot in the door and has opened my eyes as a young person to the working environment in a really positive way.
What is your career goal?
If you had asked me a year ago it would be to eventually have my own nursery to care and support very young children. Now I am thinking about working with the early learning team, putting the knowledge I have to further use and a chance to continue learning from those I work with.
What has been your biggest accomplishment since you’ve started your apprenticeship?
Although I wanted to work with children I am now working within a totally different environment and enjoying it. It has shown me to always keep my mind open to different opportunities that arise and that anyone can adapt to change if they try.
Why should other young people apply for an apprenticeship at Ealing Council?
College and university is not for everyone, and an apprenticeship gives you the tools to gain a qualification whilst earning money and for some people that is a better incentive.
Do you have another job or a hobby that you do outside of your apprenticeship?
In my spare time I like to catch up with friends and family.
Who do you aspire to be like and why?
If there is anyone I wish to be like it would be my Nan. She taught me that if you want something, you do all you can for it. If doing something makes you happy you should do all you can to keep it. Making everyone proud isn’t the be all and end all. Working hard and achieving everything you can in life is what will make you succeed.