Johanna Graham

Johanna started her working life at the Britannia Building Society. After gaining some experience, she decided to move to Portishead Insurance where she was given the support and opportunity to study towards the Retail Financial Services (Insurance) Apprenticeship.

Portishead is a small, busy high street broker dealing with all types of insurance.

Johanna enjoyed doing the work towards the course and was pleased with the chance to demonstrate her skills whilst doing the National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) as well as test her knowledge with the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) exam.

Johanna says ‘Studying as a NSAFS student gave me the tools I needed to progress my career.’

Johanna completed her Apprenticeship in 2008. Within 18 months, she has progressed from being Office Junior to Office Manager, largely thanks to the experience gained whilst doing her Apprenticeship. She is now responsible for the running of the office as well as dealing with clients and delivering all types of general insurance.

Johanna was also awarded a Certificate of Recognition by Lord Young of Norwood Green at the regional launch of the NSAFS in the South West when she attended as a Student Ambassador. Johanna says “It was great to be recognised for what I have achieved.’

Get more information on the National Skills Academy for Financial Services (NSAFS)’ work with Apprenticeships.