Investing in Future Talent: A Conversation with Rebecca Bawden for National Apprenticeship Week.
At Agena, we believe in nurturing talent and providing meaningful opportunities for growth. As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, as we sit down again with Rebecca Bawden, our Talent Acquisition and Development Manager, to discuss the impact of apprenticeships, what we look for in candidates, and how we support our apprentices in building successful careers.
Q: What qualities do you look for in candidates when recruiting apprentices for Agena?
“I believe in aligning our apprentices with Agena’s core values. Enthusiasm is a key trait! An ideal candidate brings a genuine commitment to learning and growing in their chosen field. We offer a supportive, dynamic workplace, but the apprentice must bring the dedication to succeed. It’s that balance between enthusiasm and determination that sets someone up for success in our program.”
Q: How do you ensure the apprenticeship program aligns with the company’s long-term goals?
“My approach is closely aligned with Agena’s needs. I assess the company’s goals and team requirements—whether it’s adding headcount or filling specific skill gaps. Based on these insights, I recommend apprenticeship programs that support our long-term vision. Apprentices can be new recruits filling strategic roles or existing employees looking to upskill or transition into new career paths. This flexibility helps us grow as a company while investing in individual development.”
Q: Can you share a success story of an apprentice who has grown within the company?
“Absolutely! Success stories are at the heart of what we do. Andrzej, one of our apprentices who undertook an apprenticeship to change career paths, recently received a Highly Commended award at the National Apprenticeship Awards—a testament to his hard work and achievements. Beyond accolades, all our apprentices grow in confidence, expertise, and professional ambition, which is truly inspiring to witness. You can read more about our apprentices’ journeys on the Agena Apprenticeship website page.”
Q: How does the company support apprentices in balancing their studies with on-the-job responsibilities?
“Balance is crucial to success in an apprenticeship. Our apprentices receive a minimum of six hours per week for off-the-job learning, allowing them to focus on their studies and coursework. We encourage them to plan their schedules thoughtfully, ensuring they dedicate time to their program while managing workplace responsibilities effectively. It’s a skill they develop early on, and it sets them up for future success.”
Q: What strategies are in place to ensure apprentices feel valued and integrated into the wider team?
“We’ve built a strong support network through the Agena Ascend group, which meets quarterly. These sessions give apprentices a platform to share tips, exchange ideas, and update others on their progress. With apprentices working across different programs, this networking group fosters collaboration and ensures they feel part of something bigger.”
Q: What kind of feedback do you receive from apprentices about their experience, and how is it used to improve the program?
“The feedback we receive is overwhelmingly positive. Apprentices consistently express their appreciation for gaining qualifications alongside hands-on workplace experience. They talk about increased confidence, stronger professional networks, and feeling genuinely invested in.
To ensure we continue delivering a high-quality experience, I thoroughly research and screen the Training Providers we work with. Factors like Ofsted ratings, achievement rates, and delivery methods are critical to ensuring we’re partnering with the best providers for each course. This careful selection process helps set up our apprentices for success and ensures they receive a valuable and rewarding experience.
By listening to feedback and carefully choosing the right partners, we continuously refine our programs, maintaining a supportive and inspiring environment for our apprentices.”
At Agena, we are proud to support our apprentices as they embark on their career journeys. Their dedication and growth not only strengthen our workforce but also contribute to a brighter future for the industry.
For more insights into our apprenticeship program and success stories, visit our Agena Apprenticeship page.
