Job Profile: Natalie

Services and Checkout Manager

Achieved eleven GCSEs, plus A levels in Business and Business French at Chapter Business and Enterprise College.

I chose the Trainee Management Options programme because it allowed me to work full-time as well as learn. I felt that being able to work I would gain more practical knowledge and experience. The programme fulfilled all of its promises. I was given the support I needed and was signed off after six months. Now I’m going to embark on a Foundation Degree in Retailing – and Tesco will be supporting me through funding and giving me time off work to study.

“Making new friends and learning to work with new people”

The biggest highlight has been making new friends, learning to work with different people and achieving a near perfect score at the end of the programme. The biggest challenge? I think it’s learning to mature and build up a strong, confident presence quickly. However, with the help of a good Store Manager and a strong team around me, I soon did that. After the training I received, I feel I do have an advantage over those who have gone to university – I have a job, I’m earning money, I’ve bought my own car and I feel settled.

“I’m now well on my way to becoming a Personnel Manager”

In two years I see myself completing the Foundation Degree in Retailing and becoming a Personnel Manager. So I’ve never regretted choosing this programme over university. What would I say to someone considering this option? Go for it. You have nothing to lose and great experience, knowledge and friendships to gain. I’ve already recommended this programme to others, so I’ve no problem in recommending it again.