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Focus on: Emma Ollivant, an Apprentice with The Source Emma Ollivant, 18 from Sheffield, came to The Source for pre-employment training to help her find a position in the retail sector. After participating in the Programme Led Apprenticeship scheme and gaining valuable retail skills and knowledge, The Source supported Emma into a Sales Assistant position in Pumpkin Patch Meadowhall.

Emma completed her Apprenticeship in Retail and is now participating in a Level 3 Visual Merchandising qualification. Emma has found her qualification not only beneficial to her role but to her confidence too. Emma left school shy and reserved, but has now grown in confidence and is excited for the next step in her future.

"I have really enjoyed my qualification as I am able to learn whilst working. It has opened so many doors in my future. Before, I wouldn't say boo to a goose, but now I am really confident and know that I am competent in my role. I have learnt visual merchandising skills that have been crucial to my position and now I love putting visual displays together. "

Stephanie Wilman, Assistant Manager at Pumpkin Patch Meadowhall, said: "Emma has made excellent progress on her qualification. She has grown in confidence and now applies the fantastic retail skills she has learnt to her role in Pumpkin Patch.  She is an asset to our organisation and we are so impressed with the retail qualifications delivered by The Source."

Emma has gained so much from her qualification that she would recommend anyone to participate in an Apprenticeship. "It's a great way to learn more skills whilst earning. I have gained practical experience in addition to a nationally recognised retail qualification and it has been brilliant - this really is my time to shine!"