Yi Liu, Sourcing and Buying Manager, Links Aerospace

Before starting your apprenticeship, did you know what to expect or have any concerns about studying an apprenticeship?

“Yes. I researched the course and contacted the SRSCC Team for information to make sure the apprenticeship was the right choice for me. I did worry about having a lot of pressure as it had been so long since I sat in a class, but I knew I wanted to do it, so I was ready.”

Did you need/use Cognassist? If so, did you find it useful?

“I’m happy to have had the chance to use Cognassist, I find it helpful in understanding my learning style, abilities, and weaknesses. I would recommend other learners to use it if they haven’t done so.”

How does the support you receive at SRSCC help you in working towards your Apprenticeship?

“I’ve received support from SRSCC in all aspects; from guidance and instructions in using Aptem and BKSB platforms, attending workshops, and downloading resources, to regular meetings and messages to help me maintain steady progress and achieve the outcomes expected. My progress mentor, Claire, encouraged me to set a higher goal for distinction- I think I will try! All Course Tutors are very nice people, and it’s always relaxing and engaging in their classes- this made me stop worrying about my learning and aimed to do better.

We receive newsletters and messages regularly with information about safeguarding, learning resources, and career development, which are all very useful. Besides, there are multiple ways of contacting our tutors or the admin team if we have questions or want to report an issue. In summary, I feel supported and comfortable with my learning environment at SRSCC.”

Have you experienced any struggles or tough moments along the way? If so, how have you overcome them?

“Learning while working is never easy. Although I receive lots of support from my workplace and have the required hours to do my studies, it is often hard to find a big block of time to focus on learning. I could only do bits by bits when I had time between meetings and daily tasks. So, I fell behind schedule and had many overdue tasks in the first month. During the orientation sessions, the tutors told us not to worry as this is normal at the beginning of our studies, and as we continue learning and have a better knowledge of the course, we will do much better- this is true! I think I’m an Aptem expert now – I know the different types of tasks and the amount of time they require – so I can manage according to my daily work and use time wisely. For example, when I work on issuing a distributor agreement with a new supplier, I do relevant tasks such as workplace application for ‘contractual models within my organisation’ and ‘understanding your organisation’s terms and conditions’ despite it being due in several months. This way, I complete tasks quickly. I allow a small number of overdue tasks, but I know I am way ahead of schedule in the ‘big picture’. Besides, being a task-driven person is an advantage- staying on top of the deadlines makes me happy.”

How has the Apprenticeship help you grow as a person and develop your professional skills?

“What helped me the most is that I was always encouraged to reflect and apply what I learnt in work. To be able to apply the knowledge and skills in the workplace, I must gain a thorough understanding and remember my learning well. Then the e-learning modules, exercises, and assignments make great sense as they prepare me for my workplace application. I appreciate the course design and how the course is delivered, they make my learning efficient. The most important thing of all is that it’s taught me to apply what I learnt through SRSCC and the apprenticeship in my workplace and help make improvements. My colleagues think I appear more professional using the terminology I’ve learnt, and I look more confident during supplier and customer meetings. I gave feedback to the team to help optimise the company processes. I even led the recent negotiations with new suppliers and signed distributor agreements, which I would have never even thought about doing in the past.”

Have you had the opportunity to apply what you’ve learnt in real-world scenarios?

“A lot. I’ve optimised our procurement processes; I attend customer meetings to understand their requirements and feedback on what we can offer. I also attend supplier meetings for inquiries, quotes, and negotiations around good value. I take part in reviewing and issuing contracts; I also understand better the company processes, policies, and rules after learning. Like I said earlier, I have made many changes at work.”

What did you enjoy most about your apprenticeship experience?

“I enjoy reading the feedback the tutors write for my assignments and workplace applications because they are constructive and encouraging. I also enjoy seeing the red number (overdue tasks) going down. 😊”

What advice would you give to someone contemplating whether to enroll onto an Apprenticeship?

“I would advise anyone to first think about their goal of learning and learn about the course – its outcomes, the amount of time it takes, and the level of effort you need to make. Also, ask yourself: ‘Is this the right course for me?’ You have to be determined before you proceed, because the apprenticeship is hard work, you want to ensure your time and efforts are worthwhile. If you have doubts, ask the SRSCC Team, they will help you understand more about the programme.”

Have you considered continuing with the next level of study? Would you remain on Apprenticeship route or choose the commercial pathway?

“I am very interested in continuing with the next level. However, as I am still early with my current course, I don’t know if I will take another course immediately or later on.”

Yi’s Line Manager added, “I’m pleased that Yi was awarded Apprentice of the Month. Well done, Yi! As her manager, I am also very proud of her for the improvements she made in her work. She is a valued asset to our Procurement Team. (Yubin Xu, Director)”

SRSCC would like to extend a heartfelt congratulations to Yi for this excellent achievement! Keep up the hard work!