We are Recruiting

Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) Orkney are currently recruiting for a Modern Apprentice Administrative Assistant to join our team.

The successful candidate will be supported to complete a Modern Apprenticeship in Business and Administration at Orkney College UHI (read more here).  This is a fantastic opportunity for someone aged between 16 and 24 years - or 29 years if you are care experienced or disabled – who is looking to gain qualifications alongside working and earning a salary.

Until recently, the Administrative Assistant post was held by Andy Tait, who successfully completed his SVQ 2 and SVQ 3 Business and Administration qualifications during his time with DYW Orkney.  You can read more about Andy’s journey with us below:

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Andy Tait has completed his SVQ 2 and 3 in Business Administration during his time with DYW Orkney.

“I started my job at DYW Orkney in November 2020, while COVID-19 restrictions were still in place.  I initially worked from home, supported by Rachel Scarth, Project Manager, via emails and Microsoft Teams catch ups.
 
“This job has various aspects to it including finance (raising purchase orders and receiving and forwarding invoices for payment); organising meetings of the DYW Orkney Regional Group Board, including booking venues, sending out papers and taking minutes; supporting the arrangements for events like the Orkney Careers Fair, and providing administrative support for Rachel and the rest of the team.
 
“After getting to grips with the job, I started my SVQ 2 (SCQF Level 5) Business and Administration qualification in February 2021.  Whilst completing tasks in my job I had to remember to take plenty of photographs as this is used as evidence towards my SVQ.  I had plenty of support from the whole DYW Orkney team while gaining my qualification, as well as from my allocated Assessor and the SVQ support class that is held every Friday at the college.
 
“I completed my SVQ 2 in November 2021, after which I started my SVQ 3 (SCQF Level 6).  During this qualification restrictions eased, which allowed me to help with the organisation of a number of different events.  These events could be aimed at school pupils, local employers, parents and carers or partner organisations.  The biggest and most successful event in 2022 was the Orkney Careers Fair.
 
“Being able to complete my SVQ2 Business and Administration qualification during the Coronavirus pandemic was a massive achievement as this was mainly done remotely and I was used to working as part of a team, face-to-face.  This has given me the opportunity to learn quickly on the job, progress further than I ever thought was possible and I achieved so much.
 
“Completing my SVQ3 in Business and Administration qualification has given me the opportunity to expand my knowledge, learn new skills and given me the opportunity to progress further in my career.  I am so thankful for DYW Orkney giving me the opportunity to develop and further my education along with Orkney College UHI who have provided the training opportunities.”
 
If you are interested in applying for this job, you can read more, or submit your application, here.  If you would like an informal discussion about the role or the Modern Apprenticeship qualification, contact Rachel Scarth, DYW Orkney Project Manager, on (01856) 569 352 or by emailing [email protected]
 
*Please note, while the post is currently advertised to 30 September 2023, it will be available until 31 March 2024, and there is potential for it to be extended further once funding is confirmed.  Please contact Rachel Scarth at the details above if you would like to discuss this further.*

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