Tayah Kaipo says completing the ServiceIQ Retail Apprenticeship programme has not only boosted her confidence, but also opened her eyes to a rewarding career and planted the idea of one day owning a store of her own.

It was just three years ago when the 17-year-old started as a Produce Manager at Four Square Waipu. Landing the role was Tayah’s first full-time job and less than a year later she was promoted to Chilled and Frozen Manager.

Her enthusiasm and work ethic caught the eye of Jodie Ansell, the store's owner. Tayah recalls, “She encouraged me and saw a lot of promise in me early on. I didn't really know I wanted to have a retail career – until Jodie mentioned it to me and said I’d be great for this.”

Tayah seized the chance to upskill – the opportunity broadened her horizons in many aspects of the business. “The Retail Apprenticeship programme is about giving you leadership and business management experience. 

Staff management is something Tayah is learning about first hand. “I have a co-worker and Jodie gave me the responsibility to train her up.”

Tayah does not hesitate to recommend the Retail Apprenticeship to others. “It has definitely opened doors for me. I have more confidence and belief that one day I can become a Store Manager or own my own store.”

Waipu Four Square Owner Jodie Ansell says “Tayah has been with me since day two of owning the store. I had no managers. I hired Tayah as a produce manager at 17 years old and now, at 21, she can run my store single handed. I could not be prouder of her.”

ServiceIQ Sector Manager Pippa Saxon says the Retail Apprenticeship is structured to fit any retail business, large or small and combines the New Zealand Certificates in Retail Level 3 and Level 4. Employers could also be eligible for a wage subsidy through the government’s apprentice support programmes.