Member Article

Gauntlet’s Search For An Apprentice Has Created Two Fulfilling Roles

Whilst Lord Sugar’s search for an apprentice continues, a Leeds-based commercial insurance broker and risk manager already has two highly talented apprentices on the payroll.

Amy Bell (23) and Melissa Farrar (19), have both found fulfilling apprenticeships with fast-growing Gauntlet Group, which is spreading its sphere of influence across the UK by not only handling the insurance requirements of a wide range of commercial clients, but also working in partnership with a network of appointed representatives (ARs).

The ARs run their own businesses with back office support from Gauntlet HQ in Killingbeck, Leeds and Amy and Melissa are part of a team that supports them. They also assist when insurance policies are first taken out, up for renewal, or need altering to take account of changes affecting the insured or a vehicle. They handle general queries and invoicing duties, as well as learning whilst working.

Both are studying for a certificate from the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) and an NVQ in financial services. Amy, who lives in South Leeds and started her apprenticeship in August 2014, has already completed the two exams required for the CII certificate and is now working to complete her NVW. She will then continue her studies to a Diploma level.

Melissa, from Roundhay, is currently completing her first CII exams and working towards the completion of her NVQ, having started her apprenticeship in March 2015. Both apprentices have their work monitored and evaluated by learning provider, Kaplan.

The two young women have similar educational backgrounds. Prior to joining Gauntlet, Amy attended college at Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College in Leeds and completed A-Levels in Maths, Further Maths and Biology, whilst working part-time at Superdrug. Her goal is to excel within the insurance industry.

Melissa studied at Allerton Grange Sixth Form and obtained A-Levels in English Language, PE and Sociology, whilst working part-time at M&S. Her aim is to progress professionally in the insurance industry, whilst enjoying the benefits of personal growth.

Amy says: “I have worked at Gauntlet for 15 months and the fast-paced environment provides everything I had hoped for when embarking on an apprenticeship. From day one, I have learned the ropes on the job, with the support of my colleagues. Whilst it is a challenge balancing studies alongside work, I find that being immersed in the subject of my studies provides me with the opportunity to learn quickly. The range of services provided by Gauntlet mean there is real variation in the work that I handle.”

Melissa’s experience, though shorter in duration, has been a similar one. She says: “My time at Gauntlet has been a rewarding and challenging experience filled with new opportunities. The support provided to enhance my progress has been outstanding. I believe the studying I am doing towards my Certificate in Insurance has enhanced my performance within my role and will continue to do so. I hope to continue to progress through the company, as Gauntlet is growing quickly and this presents many opportunities.”

Speaking on behalf of Gauntlet, Director Ian McCarron says: “As a company, we had never been down the apprenticeship route, but decided to trial it with Amy and were delighted with the calibre of apprentice that we took on. This encouraged us to create another apprentice role for Melissa and we have again found this very beneficial. We would urge all employers to consider apprentices, as we value the contribution ours have made. We are committed to helping Amy and Melissa grow with Gauntlet, enjoying rewarding and personally satisfying careers.”

More information about Gauntlet Group can be found at www.gauntletgroup.com

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Jane Hunt .