James Brown and Sons welcomes first apprentice in 120 years
Chloe Coleman combines her role at the funeral home on Newtownards Road, Belfast, where she is often the first face visiting families see
James Brown and Sons Funeral Directors has taken on Chloe Coleman, its first apprentice in close to 120 years, over the summer.
According to the funeral provider, Coleman is thriving in her role as apprentice receptionist administrator.
She combines her role at the funeral home on Newtownards Road, Belfast, where she is often the first face visiting families see.
Coleman was inspired to undertake her apprenticeship studies, which are provided by Inspiro Learning, after seeing a funeral arranger talk about her role on TikTok.
Coleman said: “It might sound silly, but I had not expected the work to be so interesting and rewarding. So, when I saw the role advertised online, I applied, and from the very first conversation I had about it, it felt right, and I have enjoyed each day since.
“I love being able to help families when they’re obviously having a very difficult time. People are just so grateful for what we do for them. It’s really fulfilling.”
She added: “In my opinion, apprenticeships are amazing – they’re a brilliant opportunity for people. Being here every day means I can learn and earn money at the same time.”
Emma Moore, branch development manager at Funeral Partners, added: “Having an apprentice is proving a real asset to our team. Chloe has brought new ideas and perspectives which is really refreshing.
“We felt this was the right time to bring in an apprentice as, traditionally, the profession has sometimes been difficult to enter, and we felt we wanted to nurture someone right through the career paths we have available.”
