Apprentice success stories – Claire Maulson

Every learner’s journey into employment looks different, and Claire’s story is a powerful reminder that progress doesn’t have to be rushed to be meaningful.

After discovering the TP Ignite programme at a Reed event, Claire decided to step outside her comfort zone and explore a new opportunity that could support her return to employment.

TP Ignite is a partnership between Penshaw View and Teleperformance designed to open genuine pathways back into employment, broadening recruitment opportunities and open genuine pathways for people like Claire to get back into work.

Completion of the programme offers candidates a guaranteed L1 qualification, an interview for a role and the possibility of multiple customer service apprenticeship positions.

Claire completed the TP Ignite programme and is now flourishing in her new team whilst inducting onto a Teleperformance customer service apprenticeship programme.

She has been gradually rebuilding her confidence, developing new skills and adjusting to a new working environment. Below, she reflects on her experience so far in her own words:

Q) What barriers have you faced in the past when trying to move into employment?

I was unemployed after I had a stroke. I did some volunteer work, but at first, I felt quite ashamed and struggled with my confidence.
Each time I didn’t get a job, it knocked me back and made it harder to believe in myself, but over time, I learned to push through it.

Q) What benefits did you take away from the classroom?

It was definitely the customer service element.
It helped me get comfortable in the environment before starting the apprenticeship, and I was able to gain a clear understanding of how the office operates day to day.

Q) How has your confidence improved from day one to now?

My confidence has improved slightly. I do feel more nervous about starting on the floor, as training felt like a safe haven. Now I have lots of new information to take in, but it’s also exciting.

Q) Was it beneficial to start work in this way?

Yes – learning new skills is always a bonus. I feel like I’m gaining something new every day, and I wouldn’t have liked being thrown in at the deep end.

Q) Did you enjoy being part of a group?

Yes, we’ve started a group chat and it’s been really helpful. Having that extra support from people in the same position as me is a big bonus, and it’s great to be able to learn from each other.

Q) Did you feel supported moving through interview into starting training?

Yes – we had support from a tutor initially and then a Teleperformance trainer for two weeks. My tutor helped me with all the documents, and honestly, I might have given up without that support.

Q) What do you see for the future?

I’d like to continue developing and work my way up the ladder. Once you get started, it really draws you in.

Q) What advice would you give to anyone considering an opportunity like this?

Give it a go. You’ve got nothing to lose, and you might surprise yourself with what you can achieve.

Q) What have you taken away from this experience?

I’ve taken away stronger customer care skills, a real sense of teamwork, and a much more positive attitude overall.

We’d like to thank Claire for sharing her honest and inspiring journey with us.

Her story is a great example of how taking a step outside your comfort zone, accessing the right support, and being open to learning can create real opportunities for growth and development.

If you’ve been thinking about taking the next step in your career, the TP Ignite programme could be the perfect way to explore new opportunities and build meaningful pathways into employment.

Whether you’re a learner interested in joining or an employer wanting to find out more, our team would be happy to help. Get in touch today.