Programme

Level 5 Operational Manager Apprenticeship

Organisation

Nubian Life Resource Centre

Why did you enrol?

I wanted to improve myself professionally as well as gain more experiences.

Learning Experience

The skills coach was amazing. She encouraged, supported and worked with me throughout the course. She helped me pull on my strength and evolve on my weaknesses.

Impact

My confidence has improved aswell as the workload. Its a challenge but I'm not scared to take it all on.

Highlight

I was going through an assignment with my tutor s I was struggling (so I believed) discussing my job, duties, challenges etc. Before I knew it, I had had a professional discussion and answered all of the questions. From then I realised I knew what I was doing and was more than capable of doing the job.

Recommendation

I definitely would as it will test you and your knowledge. But you'll also gain so much professionally and personally.

Programme

Level 3 HR Support Staff Programme

Organisation

Rowe Farming

Why did you enrol?

I have seen the best opportunity to enrich my knowledge, skills, understanding and behavior and be more professional in my future HR career.

Learning Experience

I have been lucky with my skills coach (I had three skills coaches for the duration of the program), as they are the most helpful and supportive people. They all make me believe in myself and succeed in my professional career as an HR assistant. They make me dive deep and understand the needs of the business. How, when and where the evidence-based decision needs to be made, therefore I can prove my competence and professionalism.

Impact

I have achieved a lot of personal goals with this program. I have enhanced my knowledge, confidence, my English (not my first language) writing and reading are up to the standards for HR professional. Professionally, the program provided essential information like analyzing, collecting, processing, communicating, and protecting HR information, which is a crucial element of developing key skills, knowledge and behavior as an HR professional. I have used all this important information to demonstrate and complete tasks and projects of high importance for the business.

Highlight

One of the moments which I will never forget is when my manager passed me feedback from my skills coach. The feedback was so positive for me as a person and professional and business asset. Ellen made me feel so proud of myself and what I managed to achieve so far within the program. This was simple but very important feedback!

Recommendation

Definitely YES ! First, I would like to say a massive thank you to the whole Nine dots team, as you are all incredible, open-minded, helpful and supportive people. Please, never change and keep doing what you do to help and to other people like me.

Programme

Level 5 Operational Manager Programme

Organisation

Churchill Health Care

Why did you enrol?

I wanted to progress on my job role and position.

Learning Experience

Amazing, very engaging.

Impact

Since I have been enrolled in this programme I learn something new every day and it helps a lot with my personal development.

Highlight

In one of the online classes, I learned how to deal with individuals skill set impacting their management skills which helped me grow a lot. It was very in depth and helpful.

Recommendation

Yes, definitely. I have already recommended this programme for my colleges, I like it because it a combination on online learning and self learning.

Programme

Level 5 Operational Manager Apprenticeship

Organisation

London Mutual Credit Union

Why did you enrol?

I had recently become a manager and although I had lead projects in the past, being responsible for permanent team was still quite new to me. I came across the Nine Dots Development apprenticeship and thought I would strengthen my skills.

Learning Experience

My skills coach (Roy) was amazing! After each workshop, he gave me a chance to process the class before fully checking my understanding and helping me with any queries that I had along the way. The virtual classes were cool because there were breakout sessions, where I could work with other people from different industries in the same position that I was in.

Impact

The programme helped me to understand other people and how my actions could impact them. I had never really thought about learning and personality styles in the past. Not only did I find this interesting, it also practically helped me to engage my team in train and conflict resolution.

Highlight

The programme helped me to keep track of my own personal development and set SMART goals to help me grow.

Recommendation

I would recommend the programme to new managers or even those who want to progress to a management role in the future. I also found that it helped with my own personal development. The programme is easy to follow and there is a lot of support along the way.

Programme

Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship

Organisation

Rowse Honey

Why did you enrol?

Because I wanted to develop myself, both personally and professionally.

Learning Experience

The learning experience was excellent overall. The workshops were very informative and engaging, providing practical skills that I could immediately apply in my role. The support from my Skills Coach was outstanding. They were always available, provided clear guidance, and their feedback was crucial for my development and success in the apprenticeship.

Impact

The programme has significantly boosted my professional confidence and technical skillset. Personally, it has improved my organizational and time management abilities, making me a much more effective worker.

Highlight

My key breakthrough moment occurred towards the end of the course when I was initially struggling with the final submission. I didn't fully understand the questions or the required structure of the answers. However, thanks to the professionalism and patience of my Skills Coach, the situation was resolved. They were consistently available to answer my many questions and took the time needed to ensure I understood exactly what was required. This support was the turning point that allowed me to complete the programme successfully.

Recommendation

Absolutely, I would highly recommend this programme. I would recommend it because it offers excellent, practical training that significantly boosts both your professional skillset and personal confidence. Furthermore, the support from the Skills Coach was invaluable, providing dedicated, patient guidance that was a true turning point in my learning journey and ultimately ensured my success.

Programme

Level 5 Operational Manager Apprenticeship

Organisation

Conservatory Outlet

Why did you enrol?

Personal Development.

Learning Experience

Very helpful. Wendy was a marvel!

Impact

Skill set has improved significantly.

Highlight

My final defense was quite tough but Wendy was able to guide me through the nitty gritty, she was professional and quickly pointed out areas I needed to work on before the presentation.

Recommendation

Yes. It was a good experience. It enhances your knowledge and improves skill set. It is a great platform to build your career and future study plans.

Programme

Level 5 Operational Manager Apprenticeship

Organisation

QED Foundation

Why did you enrol?

I joined the programme to strengthen my leadership skills and better support my team within my charity, QED. I want to develop confidence, skill and knowledge in managing people, projects and improving the efficiency and impact of our community and ESOL programmes.

Learning Experience

I found the learning experience very helpful, positive and supportive. My Skills Coach, Roy was very encouraging and provided clear guidance and constructive feedback, which helped me stay motivated, focused and confident throughout the programme. When I was unable to attend my workshops, Roy helped me understand leadership theories and was very supporting in all our meetings.

Impact

The programme has had a strong impact both personally and professionally. It has increased my confidence as a leader/manager and helped me make more structured and informed decisions. I’ve developed better communication and delegation skills, which have improved teamwork and efficiency within QED. Personally, it has boosted my self-awareness and motivation to keep learning and growing in my role.

Highlight

I found the 360 feedback particularly useful. it provided honest, multi-perspective insights into my leadership style, highlighting both strengths and areas for development that I hadn’t fully recognised myself. This feedback helped me adjust my communication, improve collaboration, and focus on areas like delegation and team motivation which ultimately made me a more self-aware and effective manager.

Recommendation

Yes, I would recommend the programme. It provides flexible yet structured learning, and personalised one to one support that helps develop effective leadership skills. The combination of workshops, coaching, and reflective activities allows participants to apply what they learn directly to their roles, boosting confidence, improving team management, and enhancing organisational impact - especially in a charity or non-profit setting.

Programme

Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship

Organisation

What made you decide to enrol on the programme?

Why did you enrol?

Learning Experience

The workshops were fantastic and my skills coach Wendy is a Legend.

Impact

I am far less Biased in all aspects of team management. My Mathematics and English has improved massively and I now have a fantastic job which I love waking up for every morning.

Highlight

I received an offer from a major engineering/Design company to come and work for them. What’s not to be happy about?

Recommendation

Definitely. It’s a no brainer providing your employer is [ ] allowing you time to complete the Assignments. Do it!

Programme

Level 5 Operational Manager Programme

Organisation

Cardinal Healthcare

Why did you enrol?

I had been discussing with my line manager for some time about progressing and honing my skills in some way. It felt a good time to make the step into the world of learning.

Learning Experience

I was worried about how I could balance work and learning but through the workshops and the support of the skills coaches it was enjoyable. Meeting others from different backgrounds but also the ability to make me feel confident in producing my projects. Helping me think outside the box as well as challenge myself to new ways of thinking and producing information. Because I didn't have to go off site to go to training or workshops it made it easy for me to either continue work or work on my projects.

Impact

Once I finished the course I felt such achievement, this is something that I did, I worked hard at and I am very proud of myself. The programme has helped me look at the way I work and the way I am with others, using my skills to help others achieve their own goals.

Highlight

I really didn't like one of the projects, it nearly pushed me to the point of stopping the programme, with the help of my skills coach I broke through that wall and passed the project. It was then I knew I had to continue. I am so glad I did, getting an overall distinction at my time in life has made me feel I can do anything in the academic world.

Recommendation

I would recommend the programme, it helped me grow confidence, that I am now in the job that I wanted and have become a Project Manager. I feel this programme has helped lead that success and confident to make the change. If I can do it and take the leap to learning then anyone can do it.

Programme

Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship

Organisation

Rdds Avionics

Why did you enrol?

I was prompted to a leadership role, which required that I undertake additional training.

Learning Experience

I found the training very informative and liked the structure of the workshops (with regular breakouts for discussion and collaboration). Heather was an incredibly supportive coach, and infinitely patient, as I struggled to properly allocate time for my assignments and got very behind, doing the bulk of them in the final months before assessment.

Impact

I felt it gave me a great insight to reasoning and psychology behind leadership approaches and decisions. Having that foundational knowledge has really helped me when approaching difficult discussions. I have since been promoted to Assistant Design Office Manager, which is undoubtedly a product of putting the training into good practice.

Highlight

I think one of the key moments for me was the 360-degree feedback. When I got the results, I found that I had rated myself lower in every metric than any of the respondents; across the board, my peers, managers, and colleagues saw me as more capable and competent than I saw myself. As a result, one of the key elements of my personal development and growth has been to develop my self-confidence by being mindful of my achievements and doubting myself less. I'm also careful to acknowledge when members of my team do well, to ensure they recognise their own strengths as well.

Recommendation

Absolutely, I think the topics covered are insightful and useful in a leadership role and feel I have become a better team leader and manager as a result.

Programme

Level 3 HR Support Staff Apprenticeship

Organisation

Aston University Engineering Academy Birmingham

Why did you enrol?

A need for a HR administration within our school, and for my own CPD.

Learning Experience

I found the learning experience extremely valuable and engaging. The workshops were well-structured and provided a clear understanding of key HR concepts, which I could directly relate to my day-to-day role at Aston University Engineering Academy. I particularly appreciated the interactive nature of the sessions, as they encouraged discussion and practical application, helping me to embed my learning more effectively. The support from Gill was exceptional. She was always approachable, provided insightful feedback, and guided me through challenges in a way that boosted my confidence. Her encouragement and practical advice helped me to not only complete the apprenticeship successfully but also to apply the knowledge and skills immediately within my role. Overall, the programme has been a highly positive experience that has enhanced both my professional development and my contribution to the organisation.

Impact

The programme has had a significant impact on me both personally and professionally. Professionally, it has strengthened my HR knowledge and skills, giving me greater confidence in handling a variety of HR responsibilities, from recruitment and onboarding to performance management. I feel more equipped to contribute effectively to AUEA’s people management strategy and to support both staff and leadership with confidence and clarity. Personally, the programme has boosted my confidence and sense of achievement. Completing the apprenticeship has reinforced my commitment to continuous professional development and has motivated me to take on new challenges within my role. It has also helped me reflect on my own practice, identify areas for growth, and recognise the value of seeking support and guidance when needed. Overall, the programme has been empowering and has positively influenced the way I approach my work and professional development.

Highlight

A real highlight for me was completing my first major assessment within the programme and receiving positive feedback from Gill. It was a breakthrough moment because it gave me the confidence to see how much I had learned and how I could apply HR theory directly to my role at AUEA. I realised that the skills I had been developing were not just academic but practical and made a tangible difference in my day-to-day work. That moment reinforced my belief in my ability to grow professionally and contributed to a renewed sense of motivation and pride in my role.

Recommendation

Yes, I would highly recommend the programme. It offers a comprehensive and practical approach to HR, providing both theoretical knowledge and real-world application that can be used immediately in the workplace. The workshops are engaging and well-structured, and the support from Gill is outstanding, offering guidance and encouragement throughout. Completing the programme not only enhances professional skills but also boosts confidence, motivation, and career development. I believe anyone undertaking it would gain valuable insights and practical tools to make a real impact in their role.

Programme

Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship

Organisation

Standguide

Why did you enrol?

To develop my skills and support my future progression.

Learning Experience

Yes, I would definitely recommend the programme. It’s been a valuable learning experience with interactive workshops and consistent support.

Impact

The programme has had a positive impact on me both personally and professionally. It’s boosted my confidence, improved my communication skills, and helped me develop my team leading practice.

Highlight

I enjoyed the project management module, it was new and challenged me.

Recommendation

Programme

Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship

Organisation

The Stable Family Home Trust

Why did you enrol?

Better my skills and knowledge on managerial job that I am currently in.

Learning Experience

Very good and the coach is really approachable.

Impact

It has really helped with my skills and knowledge.

Highlight

Completing all my assessment in perfect timing so they are not overhanging me and [being nominated by my Skills Coach as] Learner of the Week.

Recommendation

Definitely very knowledgeable.

Programme

Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship

Organisation

Selectaglaze

Why did you enrol?

I've never been enrolled in a program before. And my work thought it be a good way to progress my development as a Team leader.

Learning Experience

The course as a whole it actually a very pleasant experience, but [particularly] how much support you get and how the skills coaches really want to do well and progress a team leader.

Impact

It has definitely made me take what I have learned on the course into my work and team. Helped me develop as a person [too].

Highlight

I am now using the tools from the course to use out on production pre planning my projects and continuous improvement.

Recommendation

Just how simple it is to use the course to my benefit and for my progression, so I would happily recommend the course.

Programme

Level 5 Operational Manager Apprenticeship

Organisation

Rother District Council

Why did you enrol?

To develop my skills as a Manager and to learn new techniques.

Learning Experience

The workshops are a great introduction to the topics, and it is a chance to discuss these with the other people on my course. The self study then helps to expand my knowledge and I can focus on the areas that I find most relevant. My skills coach has been really helpful in directing me how to approach the assignments and giving feedback.

Impact

I have gained confidence in areas that I have now been able to develop from the knowledge I have applied from the course. It has widened my thinking, I am now more mindful of different learning styles for example and so I think this has improved my approach as a manager.

Highlight

For me the project management has been particularly helpful as it s not something I have done before, I am using this knowledge to plan and implement my project and can see the benefits of having the structured approach and the management tools.

Recommendation

I would recommend the course to anyone who is prepared to dedicate the time and wants to improve their management skills. It is a great opportunity for self reflection and personal development and covers many different management tools and techniques.

Programme

Level 5 Operational Manager Apprenticeship

Organisation

Premier Mist

Why did you enrol?

I enrolled because I see this as a great opportunity to further develop my expertise and prepare for the next stage in my career. It offered the practical tools and understanding needed to take on a greater responsibility and make a stronger impact in my role I’m passionate about continuous learning and improvement. The programme provides a structured way to build on my existing experience, gain new perspectives. It directly supported both my professional growth and the organisation’s objectives. By developing my skills in Business Development I can contribute more effectively to our team and help drive our long-term goals.

Learning Experience

I’m finding the learning experience really valuable. The workshops are engaging and well-structured, offering plenty of opportunity to apply what we’ve learned in a practical context. The support from my Skills Coach has been excellent - they’ve been approachable, responsive, and have really helped me stay on track with my progress.

Impact

Personally, the programme has really boosted my confidence and self-awareness. It’s encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and reflect on my strengths and areas for improvement. I now approach challenges with a more positive and proactive mindset.

Highlight

A key breakthrough moment for me was understanding how to take a step back and look at the bigger picture rather than getting caught up in day-to-day tasks. It’s helped me become more strategic and has really changed the way I approach challenges at work.

Recommendation

Yes. The programme has been valuable both personally and professionally. It encourages reflection, builds confidence, and equips you with practical strategies to improve your performance and approach to challenges. I’ve found it very rewarding and impactful.

Programme

Level 3 HR Support Staff Apprenticeship

Organisation

Agon Systems

Why did you enrol?

Positive feedback from a colleague who was already enrolled on a course.

Learning Experience

Support from my skills coach has been amazing, nothing is too much trouble and always available for advise. The workshops have been really informative, the correct ammunition to complete the assignments. I have also been lucky with a lovely bunch of classmates.

Impact

From a professional aspect the programme has enabled me to complete a project for HR within my own organisation. On a personal note being an older student it has taught me how to complete assignments in a professional way using referencing and the content of the programme has enabled me to touch base with the foundations of the topics.

Highlight

Each time I successfully complete an assignment, and being voted Learner of the Week by my tutor.

Recommendation

Yes would highly recommend, the programme is well delivered over a set period and the end assessment is relevant to your job role taking into account all that you learnt doing the assignments.

Programme

Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship

Organisation

Toolbank

Why did you enrol?

I was given a chance to work and study at the same time, and I am very happy with that opportunity. I feel more competent in my work, I am very happy with the programme.

Learning Experience

Great. Well organised, very helpful skill coach, very helpful tutors. Interesting discussions.

Impact

Great impact, I feel more competent and confident in my position as a team leader.

Highlight

The whole program is a great, well organised, happy to be part of.

Recommendation

This is a programme, that will give you a chance to better yourself workwise, and in personal plan.

Programme

Level 5 Operational Manager Apprenticeship

Organisation

Listers Geotechnical Consultants

Why did you enrol?

To develop my business and people management skills.

Learning Experience

The workshops are good and with a smaller group you get a lot of chance to interact. The skills coach has provided advice and support as required.

Impact

I feel more empowered and better equipped to manage people and situations.

Highlight

Appreciating that I need to manage people in different ways depending on their learning style.

Recommendation

The programme is varied and covers a good range of skills and background to implement in the workplace.

Programme

Level 3 HR Support Staff Programme

Organisation

Rother District Council

Why did you enrol?

To advance my professional journey within the HR Profession.

Learning Experience

Though challenging and require commitment, they have been very enjoyable. The Skills Coach has been excellent.

Impact

It has given me a better understanding of the profession I work in and also has helped me identify the skills and attributes I need to be a good people person professional.

Highlight

Getting to the point when I have nearly completed the main part of this course has been rewarding. The next part is going to require different skills and abilities i.e. completing the project and the professional discussion, but I feel the time spent leading to this point, has equipped me well and given me the ability to finish this course successfully.

Recommendation

Yes, especially if Diana Brady is available to be the skills coach [ ] in the future.

Programme

Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship

Organisation

Hoffman Thornwood

Why did you enrol?

I wanted to better myself as a team leader.

Learning Experience

Everyone is extremely supportive and I'm enjoying every step.

Impact

Made me think about my actions before acting. Thinking before I speak. Genuinely becoming better.

Highlight

Highlights have been the group sessions. I learn so much by listening to other people and the areas they work in and situations.

Recommendation

Yes!! Learn so so much information that is everyday life that you never notice until this course points it out. For example unconscious bias.

Programme

Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship

Organisation

Ribby Hall

Why did you enrol?

I had never been given an opportunity to complete any additional courses at work. This particular course seemed very specific and valuable to my role and I felt I would get a lot of benefit from it.

Learning Experience

Impact

I think the course as provided me with a lot of tools I can take back to the workplace, it's planted ideas in my mind that I've also been able to implement into my role. I have also gained a lot of confidence from the course too which I felt I lacked before.

Highlight

I think over the last couple of months I have perhaps had a breakthrough moment, I really enjoyed writing the last couple of assignments and have received a good mark on these too. I think receiving positive feedback from the Skills coach along with my own management team as helped a lot too in the process and succession of the course.

Recommendation

Programme

Level 3 HR Support Staff Apprenticeship

Organisation

Belimo Automation

Why did you enrol?

I want to progress with the company I work for.

Learning Experience

Really informative.

Impact

I have learnt so much and if has helped with my career and confidence.

Highlight

My tutor has been so amazing and supportive, she has guided me through the whole process.

Recommendation

Programme

Level 3 HR Support Staff Apprenticeship

Organisation

PCT Care

Why did you enrol?

To support progression within my career as a people professional.

Learning Experience

Informative, interesting and approachable.

Impact

The course has had a positive impact in my professional knowledge and personal skills.

Highlight

A highlight for me was receiving the news that I have passed the course. Additionally, even though my skills coach (Diana) was on annual leave, she still contacted me with congratulations!

Recommendation

Absolutely.

Programme

Level 5 Operational Manager Apprenticeship

Organisation

Healthwatch Essex

Why did you enrol?

My CEO suggested it for me as a route for development. I had applied for a management role within my organisation but unfortunately was not successful due to a lack of experience. My CEO was keen for me to develop my management skills so discovered this apprenticeship which has allowed me to learn the theory behind management.

Learning Experience

I've found the learning experience positive so far. The workshops were really enjoyable and it was good to meet other people from other industries and discuss how we can apply what we have learnt so far to our different roles.

Impact

I feel more confident when planning projects and especially regarding risk management. I have been able to manage my volunteer groups more effectively as I am trying to be more of a leader than a manager and I think this is having a positive impact on the volunteers too.

Highlight

For me, it was probably the financial planning and management which has been a breakthrough moment for me. I have always shied away from anything related to numbers and finances as I didn't believe it was a strong skill of mine. I now feel more confident getting involved in discussions at my workplace which is focused on the finances of a specific project.

Recommendation

I would recommend the programme as it doesn't only provide skills and knowledge which I can apply within my role, but it has also boosted my confidence with participating more in project planning.

Programme

Level 5 Operational Manager Apprenticeship

Organisation

Embrace Wigan and Leigh

Why did you enrol?

When I enrolled for the course I had already worked in Operational Management for over five years, but I did not have any management qualifications and I was keen to take up the opportunity to do this course so I could evidence my level of management competence to future employers.

Learning Experience

I think the workshops and support have all been really good.

Impact

I've learned a lot during the course, and it has given me some structures and approaches to use in my daily work. It has also enabled me to better express in management terms why a particular approach is being taken or considered.

Highlight

Probably the finance module, it was a topic I was least confident on and I feel much clearer on it now. I think I enjoyed that workshop the most!

Recommendation

Yes I would. The support for me as a visually impaired learner has been really good.

Programme

Level 5 Operational Manager Apprenticeship

Organisation

Monodraught

Why did you enrol?

I wanted to gain the knowledge in order to further my role.

Learning Experience

Super exciting. The workshops are perfect to have each month, and allows you a good amount of time to get your assignments submitted.

Impact

I feel I have gained more of a sense of understanding and ownership.

Highlight

General personal relationships I have with people.

Recommendation

Yes, absolutely. It is a great place to learn but also is manageable with my role.

Programme

Level 5 Operational Manager Apprenticeship

Organisation

Hexagon IT

Why did you enrol?

To gain a management qualification.

Learning Experience

Enjoyable and learning a lot.

Impact

Gained more experience and confidence to put what I have learnt into practice.

Highlight

Enjoying doing the project assessment and putting together all the techniques I have learnt through the course.

Recommendation

Yes because you gain a lot of experience learn new techniques you may not have learnt before and it is an achievement.

Programme

Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship

Organisation

Triesse

Why did you enrol?

This programme became available through my work and is excellent in progressing me towards achieving my personal goals of being a manager with a qualification.

Learning Experience

I really enjoy the workshops that are on Teams and the exercises within the groups.

Impact

I have been able to demonstrate within my workplace my learnings and my extra work ethic has lead to me earning a promotion at work.

Highlight

Recommendation

Yes - its very easy to navigate the course and complete coursework and the support of my coach has been excellent.