Former Logistics Apprentice
“I joined FCDO Services after travelling for a year in South America, having completed my A-Levels. I’d decided in my final year of college that going to university wasn’t for me, and I wanted to do an apprenticeship. But why FCDO Services? Well, I was really interested in the huge range of vital services they provide, and I could see there was a strong focus on personal progression – many of the senior people I spoke to during the application process had started off as apprentices here.
"In just one day, I can send items to embassies in all corners of the globe – from Fiji to Mongolia to Ecuador."
As an Apprentice Warehouse Operative, I was lucky enough to spend time in several teams across the Logistics department, and today I’ve found my place within the Unclassified Despatch office team. I process and book in any items for onward global shipment, and liaise with colleagues around the world to make sure we’re delivering a seamless, swift service for our customers. It’s amazing to think that in just one day, I can send items to embassies in all corners of the globe – from Fiji to Mongolia to Ecuador.
Thinking back, there wasn’t much of a leap at all between being an apprentice and becoming a full-time member of staff, as you’re working with the same people and pretty much doing the same job but with more responsibility. When it came to completing my apprenticeship and making the move, my managers were great: they gave me the time to study for my final exams, and helped me prepare for my interview.
"My apprenticeship opened so many doors for me, and I know that there are all kinds of future possibilities at my fingertips."
I’d say the best thing about my apprenticeship was gaining the experience I needed to get a permanent role, while being truly immersed in the business and culture. The programme didn’t feel too heavy on the school side of things; it was very much a practical course where you learn on the go. I also enjoyed getting a well-rounded experience of each department in Logistics, meaning I could fully understand the processes and where my job fell into place within the wider team.
From a brilliant induction week that eases you into your apprenticeship to giving you so many opportunities to find your calling, it’s fair to say that FCDO Services is a great place to work. My apprenticeship opened so many doors for me, and I know that there are all kinds of future possibilities at my fingertips."
