Jane Chaplain

Jane Chaplain is Dartmouth Sainsbury’s current Apprentice – taking part in a six-month training programme to help her build her skills and career.

Jane, 55, has been working at Dartmouth Sainsbury’s since before it opened five years ago. She faced tragedy two and a half years ago when her husband, Paul, died after a battle with cancer.

She says the support the store showed her during this incredibly difficult time125 and also when she lost her mother, just eleven months later, was wonderful.

The Worcestershire-born mother of two said that she was allowed the time to get over these tragedies and come back to work in her own time.

Once she was back, bosses singled out Jane as a perfect candidate for Sainsbury’s Apprenticeship programme. The programme aims to prepare any member of staff with potential to move up in the company.

“Sainsbury’s Dartmouth is like a family and they kept me going through difficult times,” she said. “The company as a whole has a great attitude towards staff and the support of both the company and my colleagues has helped me overcome the hurdles I’ve faced. I’ve come back ready for a new start and a new challenge.”

The apprenticeship looks at every aspect of store life, from stacking shelves to man management, and also includes English and Maths modules. The company is looking for those eager to learn, not necessarily those who are already well qualified – the aim is to help people grow into a more senior role within the company.

“Although I’ve been here five years I’ve only really ever worked on the tills,” said Jane. “It is very exciting as the apprenticeship programme aims to give you the skills to progress within the business. I hope I can do that, but mainly I’m excited the Apprenticeship gives me the chance to learn new things and better myself.”

Jane said she has been bowled over by the support shown her by colleagues. “I’m learning from all the colleagues in store and they have been amazing,” she said. “They always make time for me and take me through the things I need to know. Everyone knows I’m on the scheme and have been very encouraging.”

Jane describes herself as a ‘People person’ who loves her job – and now wants to build her skills to allow her to do more for Sainsbury’s.

“This is the best place I have ever worked,” she said. “They have been so supportive after all the difficulties I’ve faced and now given me the chance to take part in the apprenticeship scheme. The challenge is very exciting and I’m really looking forward to getting to grips with it more, especially the maths.

It really used to terrify me as a child! It’s a wonderful opportunity that I intend to grab with both hands!”

First Published July 2013 By The Dart

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