James Nicol’s apprenticeship journey: Overcoming challenges, building skills and inspiring others.
At Access Training, we’re proud to celebrate the achievements of our apprentices, no matter where they are in life or their careers. Today, we’re sharing the inspiring story of James Nicol, a full-time staff member at The Carpenter Arms, a residential addiction recovery centre in Loughborough, who proved it’s never too late to learn, grow, and succeed.
Balancing work, life, and learning
James, now 53, started as a Support Worker in 2020 after overcoming his own struggles with addiction. In June 2024, he successfully completed his Team Leader/Supervisor Level 3 apprenticeship, demonstrating that dedication and hard work can overcome any challenge.
Despite a demanding role, James attended evening classes with Access Training to complete his Functional Skills qualifications in Maths and English at Level 2. By balancing work, studies, and personal commitments, James showcased exceptional commitment to his personal and professional growth.
Despite a demanding role, James attended evening classes with Access Training to complete his Functional Skills qualifications in Maths and English at Level 2. By balancing work, studies, and personal commitments, James showcased exceptional commitment to his personal and professional growth.
Building skills and confidence
The Team Leader/Supervisor apprenticeship equipped James with a wide range of skills and knowledge, leading to his promotion to manager. Now overseeing a team of ten staff members, James reflects on his journey:
“The course was delivered through online sessions and face-to-face meetings, which helped me develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed to complete the apprenticeship. It has given me confidence in my job role as well as the skills to motivate my team.”
“The course was delivered through online sessions and face-to-face meetings, which helped me develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed to complete the apprenticeship. It has given me confidence in my job role as well as the skills to motivate my team.”
Putting knowledge into action
James didn’t just earn a qualification, he applied what he learned to make a tangible difference in his day-to-day role. By implementing management models and strategies he improved his teams performance. His responsibilities now include:
James credits both his employer and Access Training for their unwavering support throughout his journey. Additionally, he has shared his personal story with younger learners, raising awareness about the impacts of addiction and alcohol abuse.
- Facilitating teamwork
- Providing one-to-one coaching and reviews
- Conducting audits for sickness, medication, and other operational areas
- Supporting his team to develop their skills and confidence.
James credits both his employer and Access Training for their unwavering support throughout his journey. Additionally, he has shared his personal story with younger learners, raising awareness about the impacts of addiction and alcohol abuse.
Why apprenticeships work at any age
James’s story highlights how apprenticeships are not just for school leavers or young people starting their careers. They’re a valuable opportunity for individuals at any stage of their career to:
With flexible delivery methods and personalised support, Access Training ensures that apprentices of all ages and backgrounds have the resources they need to succeed.
- Develop new skills.
- Gain confidence in their roles.
- Take their careers to the next level.
With flexible delivery methods and personalised support, Access Training ensures that apprentices of all ages and backgrounds have the resources they need to succeed.
Your path to progress
If James’s story inspires you, it’s time to explore how an apprenticeship could work for you. Whether you’re looking to advance your career, build new skills, or gain qualifications, Access Training is here to guide you every step of the way.
Discover your potential with an apprenticeship through Access Training. Speak to a member of the team by calling 0330 002 6266 or emailing [email protected]