Join us in celebrating National Apprenticeship Week this week as we shine the spotlight on some of our talented colleagues, who are receiving valuable skills and development opportunities from our wide range of apprenticeship programmes. Stay tuned over on our Capita LinkedIn page throughout the week, where we’ll be sharing #NAW2025 content each day.
Today, we meet Semeia, Advanced Functional Specialist at Capita, who is currently on our level 5 Advance Leadership and Management apprenticeship programme.
What motivated you to take on an apprenticeship at Capita, and how has it impacted your career so far?
I was motivated to take on an apprenticeship at Capita to try and brush up my current skills and learn new ones. I have already transitioned into a new role that better aligns with my skillset.
Can you share a specific project or task where the skills you gained from your apprenticeship were particularly beneficial?
A specific skill that I have gained from my apprenticeship so far is “active listening”. This is not just about hearing what is being said, it is also about understanding the speaker's perspective, emotions and underlying concerns. I feel like I am quite skilled at this now, as I have developed a knack for reading between the lines, then fact checking, which helps others "feel heard".
Have you faced challenges during your apprenticeship, and if so, how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge I have faced is managing my time. I have to be very disciplined with myself and use timeboxing to keep to my targets.
Can you tell us how the apprenticeship has supported your professional growth, and are there any achievements you’re particularly proud of?
The apprenticeship programme at Capita has supported my professional growth and development – I have gained so many new skills and get to apply them in my daily role.
A moment I am particularly proud of is finding the confidence to apply for my dream job, even though imposter syndrome was stopping me from achieving my goals.
How do you balance your apprenticeship responsibilities with your daily job duties?
I balance my apprenticeship responsibilities with my regular duties by being very disciplined at the beginning of the week and getting on with my tasks no matter what. If a meeting is cancelled or I gain any time back, I will use this for my apprenticeship. My manager and my team have been amazing and supportive too!
What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship to advance their skills?
My advice to someone considering an apprenticeship to advance their skills is not to be doubtful and go for it - there is something for everyone. As a busy mum in a fast-paced role, if I can do it – so can you!
My apprenticeship programme at Capita has helped me build a network of professional contacts and mentors. My peers and personal tutor have all been helpful and there is no such thing as a silly question. Everyone is willing to help.
What are your future career aspirations, and how has your apprenticeship prepared you to achieve them?
My future career aspirations are to work in a leadership role and the apprenticeship is helping me prepare to achieve this by focusing on the emotional intelligence, communication and personal skills and resilience needed to be successful.
