The deadline is fast approaching to apply for UK Boardroom Apprentice 2024. Applications for the 12-month unique board learning, development and placement programme close on Monday, October 9th at 3pm.
Since its inception in 2017, the programme which seeks to enable a wider diversity of individuals to play their part within boardrooms has seen 372 Boardroom Apprentices embark on their personal journey to serve on a public or third sector board.
Boardroom Apprentice founder, Eileen Mullan explained: “Boardroom Apprentice was created to deliver diversity, create change, and realise aspirations.
“Our vision is simple – to bridge the gap between aspiration and reality. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to join a host board for a year to learn how they can bring fresh perspectives and diverse thinking to boardrooms across the UK.”
Open to those aged 18 or over from all backgrounds and all abilities, the programme allows people without board experience to enhance their knowledge and understanding through in-depth learning and support.
Ms Mullan added: “I decided to create a programme that brings together three key elements – knowledge, experience and support.
“Over a twelve-month window, Boardroom Apprentices will get practical board experience, a suite of learning days and support to fully equip them to serve on a board in the public or third sector in the future.
“Being a Boardroom Apprentice is a gift with the expectation that you give it back. Being a Boardroom Apprentice is about preparing you for public service, which is about you playing your part.”
2023 UK Boardroom Apprentice, Barnett Quamie applied for the programme with the desire to give back to society and to his community. For those who are considering applying for the programme, he said: “Don’t limit your mind and think you are not what a board would look for.
“It’s people like you, that once you get onto the UK Boardroom Apprentice, and you’re placed on a host board, that you will open up their eyes and they will see what they’ve been missing, not just within a few years, but over the decades, because society has changed and you could be the person that could make them recognise that they need to move with the times.”
Similarly, fellow 2023 UK Boardroom Apprentice, Becky Reid who was placed with Home-Start East Sussex encouraged people to apply by highlighting how the programme has helped her personal growth in confidence and how this can be applied to her professional life, proving to her that her perspective matters. She said:
“The programme have helped me understand that my view and what I know is just as important as everyone else.”
Working with a host board which aligned with her own values also helped her personal development, creating a profound sense of contribution which she can be proud of.
“I did feel very proud of myself. It felt so good that I could contribute to a charity and that I’m making a difference to all the people that charity works with.”
Applications for the programme close on Monday, October 9th at 3pm.
Applicants are encouraged to spend time reading the resources made available on the website before completing and submitting their applications.