Congratulations to Martha Bramwell, our Junior Project Coordinator and Volunteer Lead, who completed a Chartered Management Institute, Team Leader Supervisor Apprenticeship course with distinction in all areas this summer!
Martha started her apprenticeship in 2022 studying at Chesterfield College as well as on-the-job learning at Junction Arts. She has demonstrated exceptional skills and knowledge, going above and beyond the requirements of her apprenticeship and we’re so proud of her.
Martha has written this blog about her apprenticeship journey and the highlights along the way; we hope it serves as an inspiration to other young people looking to work in the arts.
My apprenticeship was challenging but so rewarding! Throughout the last 18 months, I have learned a great deal from experienced professionals and mentors and gained valuable experience in all aspects of management, including finance, project management, and people management. I also had the opportunity to apply my skills to real-world projects and challenges.
One of the best things about the apprenticeship was the supportive community that surrounded me. My tutors and mentors were always there to offer guidance and encouragement, and my colleagues were always up for a brainstorming session over a cup of tea.
There have been many highlights of my apprenticeship at Junction Arts, such as helping to launch the first Chesterfield Children’s Festival and being involved in established events like Tapton Lock Festival and Bright Winter Nights.
One of my most memorable highlights was travelling to Rotterdam for the International Community Arts Festival (ICAF) with some of my colleagues. It was an incredible opportunity to meet creative people from across the globe and learn about their community arts projects.
During my time at ICAF, I experienced community opera from Lithuania (and enjoyed a post-performance, traditional cabbage soup!), learned more about documenting community arts performances and safeguarding heritage, and visited several brilliant community centres. I also attended lectures by leading professionals in the field of community arts.
This fascinating experience has offered me invaluable insights that I will take with me throughout my career. I hope to be able to return to ICAF in the future!
I’m so grateful for the opportunity to have completed my apprenticeship at Junction Arts. I’ve learned a lot, and I’ve grown both professionally and personally. I’m also grateful for the support of my team and mentors, who have helped me to achieve my goals.
My apprenticeship has given me the knowledge and skills I will hopefully need to succeed in future roles at Junction Arts and other organisations. I’m confident that I can use my skills to make a positive impact on the arts community, and I’m excited to continue my career in this field.
Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way!
