A group of apprentices studying Funeralcare have gone on to enjoy success in the industry after completing their qualification with HSDC.
Earlier this year, it was announced that HSDC had become the only FE College in the country to offer Funeralcare apprenticeships nationally. These dynamic and crucial qualifications can be offered online by the College, improving the accessibility of education in this fast-changing and vital industry.
Since its inception, these apprenticeships have gone on to help many employees in the Funeralcare industry to upskill and develop their expertise. Danielle Bell achieved a Distinction in her apprenticeship and currently works as a Funeral & Memorial Consultant for Southern Co-Operative Funeralcare. When asked about her time on the apprenticeship, Danielle said:
“I really enjoyed being able to show off my knowledge in the funeralcare industry and learning about different funeral practices across the world. Gaining this valuable qualification has enhanced my employability and allowed me to apply different aspects of my learning in my day-to-day role. I always strive to provide my clients with the best possible service, and this apprenticeship has helped greatly with that!”
HSDC’s delivery of the funeralcare apprenticeship has been an astounding success, with the College recording an incredible 100% Distinction rate for all learners who have completed the qualification so far. The course, which is nationally recognised and certified by National Apprenticeships and Steadfast EPA, focuses on improving care with dignity and respect.
From local community engagement to developing an understanding of the use of social media, HSDC’s apprenticeship is tailored to the needs of the modern Funeralcare industry and is truly leading the way in the development and enhancement of employable skills here.
Helen Hannah also works for Southern Co-Operative Funeralcare, and was full of praise for how her apprenticeship had helped her:
“The experience that I have gained on this apprenticeship has really enhanced my skills as an employee. With a distinction in this apprenticeship, I’m going to find it much easier to take the next step in my career. Anyone who has the
chance to take up this apprenticeship really should – it’s a great way to earn whilst you learn, and can only improve your knowledge, skills and behaviours. Now that I have completed my apprenticeship, I feel much more confident and am able to go about my role with a higher degree of professionalism and understanding.”
After completing her apprenticeship, Hannah Park was able to develop her knowledge of the legal and practical aspects of funeral arrangement ,helping her in her role as a Funeral & Memorial Consultant. Hannah said:
“My favourite part of this apprenticeship was applying what I already knew and breaking it down to really understand every part of my role. This is a nationally recognised qualification that showcases my commitment to professionalism and personal development, and highlights my ability to balance learning alongside my practical responsibilities.”
Claire Richards is a Work-Based Trainer at HSDC, and was instrumental in bringing the College’s Funeralcare apprenticeship to life.
Speaking about the success of the apprentices so far, Claire said:
“It has been an honour to work with such a wonderful workforce within our community. The apprentices are all from the industry and were able to upskill their existing experiences, thriving towards a diverse and meaningful career in Funeralcare.”
When asked about the importance of formal training in the modern Funeralcare industry, Claire said:
“Having the knowledge, skills and behaviours recognised to national standards in Funeralcare is a great achievement. Many funeral homes offer in-house training, but the apprenticeship is a nationally certified and widely known qualification that gives clients the peace of mind that is often necessary in the industry.”
Everybody at HSDC is incredibly proud of the achievements of its funeralcare apprentices, and can’t wait to see this qualification grow in the future.




