I’m currently enrolled on the Senior Leadership Global MBA Apprenticeship, in my second year of the programme for my department, The Development Office (UAS)
- Why did you choose to do Apprenticeship-based training?
I was looking for some professional development that would help me to develop and further my career with the University. After reading about the scheme in the University’s Bulletin newsletter I decided to attend an Apprenticeship drop-in session to find out more.
The Global MBA fits perfectly with my current role, whilst also helping me to develop my leadership skills and behaviours for future potential roles too.
- What qualifications did you have before applying for your Apprenticeship course?
I have an undergraduate degree in Marketing Communications and over 15 years of relevant work experience.
- How did you find out about your Apprenticeship?
I attended an Apprenticeship drop-in session to learn more
- What have you gained from your Apprenticeship – skills, experience etc.?
Overall, it has been a positive experience, it’s brought a high level of organisation, critical thinking, plus helped to improve my team leadership and communication skills.
There have been several modules which have direct relevance to my existing role, but I have found the Developing Leadership Capabilities and Project Management modules the most useful in terms of transferable skills.
- What has been your proudest moment so far from doing your Apprenticeship?
I’ve just completed a 3-day intensive course, which involved creating a presentation around cybersecurity to pitch to a consultancy! I’m also generally proud of managing the MBA workload and my day job at the same time.
- What are you doing now? Any future plans?
My apprenticeship is part-time so for the immediate future I’ll be continuing to study and bring the learnings back into my day job.
- What advice would you give someone who might be thinking about Apprenticeship-based training to progress their career?
I would say go for it! The whole experience is enriching, you’ll learn a lot about your subject area but also about yourself too.
- What advice would you give a manager who is considering Apprenticeship-based training for their employee?
It’s a great way to develop your team and it’s work-based, so you’ll also benefit from the learnings they bring back into the team. Ultimately most individuals are happier in their jobs when they have some level of professional development in their role, plus as a leading educational institution, we should also extend that excellence to how we develop and retain staff members.
Sophia is studying the Level 7 Senior Leaders apprenticeship with Oxford Brookes.
