After struggling with maths at school, Callander is overcoming her fears through an apprenticeship, gaining confidence, qualifications and a clear path towards a long-term career.
Callander McKinley, 26, is building her confidence, skills and career through an apprenticeship with Hull City Council'’'s Family Hubs, while overcoming a long-standing fear of maths.
Before starting her apprenticeship, Callander worked in a range of roles, including cleaning. Although she gained valuable experience, she recognised that she wanted more than just a job, she wanted a long-term career with opportunities to grow and develop.
At school, Callander found it difficult to focus and struggled to find a clear direction. Like many learners, maths was a barrier, affecting her confidence and limiting her options. As she got older, she decided it was time to challenge herself, take control of her future and overcome those barriers.
Starting a Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship has given Callander the opportunity to do just that. Through her role, she is gaining practical workplace experience while developing the knowledge and skills needed for a sustainable career. Alongside this, she is also working towards achieving her maths qualification, with tailored support that meets her individual needs.
Based at the Craven Park Training and Enterprise Centre, Callander is able to link her learning directly to her role. This approach has helped her develop both professionally and personally, building confidence in an area she once found challenging.
With the right support in place, Callander has begun to overcome her fear of maths. What was once a barrier is now something she is actively tackling, helping her to progress and open new opportunities for the future.
Since starting her apprenticeship, Callander has developed a clearer sense of direction and a more positive outlook. She now feels that she is working towards something meaningful and building a strong foundation for her long-term career.
Her journey demonstrates how apprenticeships can provide not only skills and experience, but also the confidence to overcome challenges and achieve personal goals.
I'm able to gain real workplace experience while building my skills, and it’s helped me feel like I’m working towards something meaningful for my future. I’d say to anyone thinking about doing an apprenticeship — go for it. It doesn’t matter your age; it’s never too late to start working towards something better.”