MITIE: The Real Apprentice - Mark's story

July 2010

Mark*, 34, is French and had a successful career in the catering industry, working in prestigious hotels and as a sommelier. He was used to the hard work and long hours of his industry, until a serious accident in 2005 left him with a non-visible disability and the need for a change ofcareer. It took him a long time to recover from the accident, which hasaffected his walking ability.

The accident also affected his mental health. Mark says: "Isaw a counsellor in 2009 who helped me during a period of depression.  She referred me to a scheme that put me intouch with MITIE's Real Apprentice scheme."

The Real Apprentice is an employment training programme that gives jobseekers a 10-week period to ‘sell' themselvesand allow them to understand what the world of employment demands.

During this period, participants undertake workshops, seminars, presentations and debates over a week's preplacement.  Those who pass this process are then placed on corporate sites to join operational teams as additional headcount.  Each are assigned an on-site mentor and adedicated mentor from MITIE for the duration of the programme.

Mark took part in a part-time Real Apprentice pilot scheme in February 2010, delivered in partnership with Working for Wellness, which focuses on supporting people with mental health issues back to work and JobCentre Plus. He spent a week with a global law firm and the rest of his placement with a global accountancy firm, providing administration support for thehospitality service.

"Before I started my placements, I was insecure, uncertain and unsure. I had been unemployed for four years, and wasn't at all fired up. Iwould hide in the corner of the room, not speak up. I wondered if I was fit for work experience and had no confidence to get a job."

The Real Apprentice has helped Mark regain his confidence and appreciate how he can transfer his skills and experience from the catering industry to an administrative role. As part of the programme, Mark gave a presentation to employers about his experience and the kind of role he is looking for.

"I know that I presented myself well - it's not something I thought I could do before."

The Real Apprentice also helped him explain his reasonable adjustments in a professional and positive way.

He says: "I have learnt techniques for getting the support that I need from employers without causing embarrassment to either the employer or me."He is now looking for office-based administration work.

* Mark is not his real name.