Lauran’s Apprenticeship Journey
Stepping into a leadership role for the first time can feel like a mix of excitement and uncertainty. For Lauran, becoming a Service Manager was a big milestone, but she knew she had a lot to learn to feel truly confident in her new position.
That’s when she was offered the opportunity to take the CMI Level 3 Leadership and Management apprenticeship. It wasn’t just about gaining a qualification; it was about building the skills and confidence she needed to lead effectively.
A Year of Learning and Growth
Lauran’s apprenticeship lasted just over a year. It blended structured learning with practical application, allowing her to build her skills while continuing in her day-to-day role.
Her commitment went beyond the normal working day. Alongside her duties as a Service Manager, she attended monthly webinars and set aside around three hours each week for extra work, from reflective journals to assignments.
“Although reflective journals were time-consuming, they really made me stop and think about how I could apply what I’d learned into my everyday role,” she explains.
Turning Theory into Practice
One of the most valuable parts of the apprenticeship for Lauran was the chance to apply theory directly to her work. Each module gave her tools she could put into practice immediately, whether it was managing people, improving communication, or handling complex situations.
The final stretch of the course brought everything together. Her last assignment was a presentation and Q&A session summarising what she’d learned over the year.
“That final presentation really showed me how much had sunk in. It was a great way to look back over the whole year and see just how far I’d come,” she says with pride.
Balancing Work and Study
Like many apprentices, Lauran had to find a way to balance learning with a busy workload. She was given protected learning time each week, which was essential, but sticking to it wasn’t always easy.
“The workplace doesn’t stop. Emails still come in, calls still happen, so you have to be really strict with your learning time. But my team was supportive and flexible if I needed to rearrange,” she explains.
The opportunity was offered through NCGPA to managers and those wishing to upskill. Lauran’s line manager supported her and encouraged her to take part, but in hindsight, she wishes she’d done a little more research before committing.
“If I’d researched more, I might have looked at different course providers or content. My advice to others is to take that time at the start to weigh up your options.”
Why This Apprenticeship?
Lauran chose the CMI Level 3 Leadership and Management apprenticeship because it directly matched the skills she wanted to develop as a new manager.
“I was very new to leadership, and this course had lots of different modules suited to areas I knew I needed to upskill in,” she says.
Looking to the Future
Completing the Level 3 apprenticeship has opened doors for Lauran, and she’s not ruling out further study.
When asked if she’d consider a Level 5 apprenticeship, she’s open-minded but wants to take a thoughtful approach.
“I think I would consider doing another apprenticeship, but I’d definitely want to have a discussion with someone who could help me weigh up my options. I’d like to know if it’s the right next move for my career before jumping in.”
Her Advice for Aspiring Apprentices
Lauran’s journey has given her clear advice for anyone thinking about following in her footsteps:
Do your research – Look at different providers, compare content, and understand the time commitment.
Protect your learning time – Be disciplined, even when work gets busy.
Use real-life examples – They make your assignments more meaningful and relatable.
“It’s so much easier and more enjoyable when you link the learning to your own role and experiences,” she says.
Would She Recommend It?
Without hesitation, Lauran says yes.
“It’s a great way, especially if you’re new to management, to learn different skills, build your confidence, and see how leadership works in a real-life setting.”
For her, the apprenticeship was more than just training, it was a confidence-building experience that’s had a lasting impact on how she leads and manages her team.
Lauran’s story is proof that apprenticeships are not just about gaining a qualification. They’re about personal growth, professional confidence, and the ability to turn learning into action from day one.
Need Apprenticeship journey support? Contact our Learning and Development team today!
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