Rosie Lay completed the Project Management Degree apprenticeship while working for the UK Atomic Energy Authority - a UK government research organisation responsible for the development of fusion energy.

She said: “I have learnt all about project management in depth and the best practices I can use to help manage my projects more efficiently. I have especially been able to develop my leadership skills and have learnt the theory behind some techniques.

“Balancing study and work has pushed me to become more organised and develop better time management skills. It has also impacted me in terms of the professional relationships I have developed and the links to other workplaces. Learning about my fellow classmate’s experiences and how they apply the same teachings is a very valuable insight that I can compare with my company.”

Adam Thapar – Head of Community, EDI and Dementia Services at Age UK Hertfordshire credits his Senior Leader apprenticeship with boosting his skills and confidence.

Adam said: “This has genuinely changed my life by expanding my knowledge, boosting my confidence, and providing me with the opportunity for progression within my current role. It has built my confidence and reinforced my professional credibility amongst the teams by allowing me to reflect on my role as a senior manager and my leadership skills by usefully following my learning and development as part of the course.

“It has also helped me cope positively with changes and supports the constant need to update my skills and competencies to inform and address future professional goals and the strategic ambitions of myself and that of my organisation.”

Ivonne Fombe Willias – a Senior Leader at West Northamptonshire Council – completed the Senior Leader apprenticeship and received a ‘Distinction’ grade.

She said: “I have successfully identified the goals and aspirations of my organisation and determined the requirements for effective leadership. The knowledge I have gained and applied enables me to understand the calibre of employees sought by my employer, both in recruitment and in the development of existing staff. As a leader in today's workforce, I recognise the importance of continuous self-improvement and am conscientious of the programmes that support the well-being and welfare of my team. I am grateful to have been on this programme as I’m definitely not the same person that started this journey 18 months ago.”