What made you decide to undertake an apprenticeship alongside your role?
At the time I was only a service manager for 1 year with some project lead responsibilities prior. Due to my little experience in management and desire to learn and develop, I discussed and explored the options with my line manager, and I got into contact with the learning and development team to see what courses are available. When I discovered the level 5 operational apprenticeship, I thought I’d enrol so that I can develop my knowledge and skills, as well as take on a challenge.
Can you tell us a little about the apprenticeship and what it involves?
The level 5 operational apprenticeship was roughly 18 months long, it involved the initial process of enrolment, discussions with the providers to see whether the course was right for me and further details. I was expected to attend monthly online lectures which were full days. I was expected to complete pre-work ahead of each lecture to prepare for the topic, engage with other students during the lectures and complete 2 assignments for each module. There were 8 modules in total, and I had a complete one knowledge (theory) and one skills (practice) assignments to showcase my understanding of the module and examples of how this was applied within my role.
How have you found balancing your studies with your day-to-day responsibilities as a manager?
I managed both commitments by condensing my working hours and setting aside one day a week for study. There were times when the demands of my role limited the time I could spend on assignments, and the apprenticeship occasionally added pressure to my daily work. However, the course provider was understanding and supportive, offering assignment guidance and extensions when needed. The programme also helped me develop time-management strategies that eased some of this pressure.
What’s been the most valuable thing you’ve learned during the programme?
From a skill perspective, I have gained an understanding of how to organise my workload as well as the workload of a team to ensure smoothness of service delivery. I have also developed skills in relation to using different tools when mobilising a new idea, project and ensure all parties involved remain accountable and increases the chances of the project being successful. On a personal level, my confidence in my abilities as a service manager have increased. Despite occasional periods of experiencing imposter syndrome, I have slowly learned to focus my energy solutions rather than just the issues alone.
Has your apprenticeship changed the way you lead or support your team?
My abilities around managing and leading a team have improved, I am now able of leading a team with confidence. The support I am able to provide to the team is intuitive, a lot more creative, and centred around the teams needs instead of just sticking to a script.
Can you share an example of something you’ve learned that you’ve put into practice at work?
The idea of the golden thread, in all areas of management this is imperative when it comes to wanting to reach a goal or a mission. Every team, business and organisation requires to have a smooth and visible trail of communication, planning, responsibility and actions. This ensures that any project, any plan can be executed in the most effective manner. This encompasses all areas of the role from leading a team, to completing tasks and the wider strategic aspect of the service. If the golden thread is not there or ends, then this will impact everything around it. This is something that I now pay attention to when focusing my energy on any task or project.
What achievement from your apprenticeship are you most proud of?
I think getting through it all is what I am most proud of, being able to juggle this course alongside my role and personal life has been tough but does make me feel like I have succeeded.
What support have you received from colleagues or the organisation throughout the journey?
My manager has always been supportive in relation to approving my request of condensed hours and allowing flexibility around this. Attending professional discussions with my tutor and providing their views on my learning has also been great as it is part of the course. The course provider has also been a great source of support in relation to extensions, additional support, support with assignments and being responsive.
What would you say to someone who is considering an apprenticeship?
I would definitely look into this, not just this specific apprenticeship but if you are interested in learning, developing, and committing some of your time then why not explore your options. Just be prepared to do some work and dedicate your time.
Looking back, what has this experience meant for your personal and professional development?
Professionally, now I hold two different types of qualifications in operational management which naturally is good for progression and ongoing development. Personally, it was an interesting experience to return to education while in full-time employment. I have definitely changed my perspective on apprenticeships as they are very practical and effective for learners, especially those in employment. As mentioned previously, my own confidence within my role has increased significantly where I feel prepared in doing things I previously found daunting as a new service manager.