KERRY Reynolds from Portland is enjoying a flourishing career thanks to her business administration apprenticeship with Paragon Skills for Industry.

Kerry, 20, recently completed a foundation apprenticeship in business and administration while working at Medisave UK Ltd, a Weymouth-based specialist for medical supplies and HSE First Aid Kits.

In her role as customer accounts and purchasing administration supervisor, Kerry's job is varied and includes setting up new customer accounts, placing stock orders and dealing with order queries.

She said: "I have benefited a lot from the apprenticeship.

"It has given me more confidence in my job and I have developed many skills which I can apply to my working day, such as IT and communication.

"The training programme has also improved my knowledge of health and safety and employment legislation.

"My progression has led to my recent promotion which has now allowed me to progress to a Level 3 apprenticeship which I will complete in August."

She added: "The apprenticeship is a great way to gain and improve skills in your working environment and I would highly recommend it.

"Since joining Medisave I have been lucky enough to receive two promotions and I hope to keep progressing and improving my skills with the help of further training from Paragon Skills."

Medisave director Nicola Wright recognises the benefits of enrolling staff on to apprenticeships with Paragon Skills.

She said: "We have a number of staff that have participated in apprenticeships with Paragon Skills.

"The training programmes on offer are excellent for those entering a new career or that want to gain additional skills to those acquired from vocational experience."

Further information about business skills apprenticeships and funding opportunities can be found at www.paragonskills.co.uk or by calling 0800 783 2545.