How Apprenticeship Shaped My Leadership Path
I have always believed that development should be intentional. For me, progressing in my career wasn’t just about stepping into new roles, it was about making sure I had the knowledge, qualifications, and confidence to lead effectively and support others to grow.
I joined Progress Care Solutions as a Deputy Manager, having already completed my Level 3 qualification. From that point, pursuing Leadership and Management training felt like a natural next step. Whether or not a management role came immediately, I knew achieving my Level 5 was important, both for my professional growth and for my ability to contribute meaningfully to the service. Supporting a manager requires more than experience alone; it requires understanding, reflection, and the right tools to lead.
The apprenticeship journey provided exactly that. Starting from the foundation level and building knowledge over time allowed me to measure my progress and see how far I had developed. Through reflective exercises, competency assessments, and personal development planning, I was able to identify my strengths, recognise areas for improvement, and set clear goals for growth. These structured milestones made the learning practical and relevant to my day-to-day role.
One of the most valuable aspects of the experience was the support network around it. Having access to assessors and mentors—individuals who had completed the programme themselves—created a strong system of guidance and accountability. That support ensured I stayed on track and could apply what I was learning directly into practice.
The impact on my leadership has been significant. The training strengthened my professional capabilities, deepened my understanding of leadership theory, and equipped me with tools for managing teams and navigating complex situations. I now embed reflective approaches into daily practice, encouraging teams to learn from incidents, resolve challenges constructively, and continually improve. It has also broadened my awareness of legislation, safeguarding expectations, and sector developments, ensuring that my decision-making is informed and responsible.
Today, as Manager at Portland House, I apply these insights every day; whether managing conflict, supporting staff development, or guiding the team through complex care situations. The apprenticeship helped bridge research and practice, allowing me to translate theory into meaningful action that benefits both staff and the young people we support.
My journey reflects the value of continuous learning. Professional development is not just about achieving qualifications, it’s about building confidence, capability, and perspective. Through Progress Care Solutions’ commitment to training and support, I’ve been able to strengthen my leadership and continue growing in a role where I can make a lasting impact.