Ethan Fox – Level 5 operational departmental manager Apprenticeship
I started my career doing a Business Administration apprenticeship because I wanted to gain hands-on experience while learning. University wasn’t my preferred route, and I wanted to start working immediately, but I also valued the idea of continuing my education. The apprenticeship allowed me to develop both practical business skills and a formal qualification at the same time.
The apprenticeship gave me invaluable practical experience that directly applied to my job. It helped me build confidence in my professional abilities, such as communication, time management, and project organization. In life, it taught me how to balance work, studies, and personal responsibilities—a skill I continue to rely on.
My training provider was extremely supportive. They offered regular check-ins, mentoring sessions, and resources to ensure I was on track with both work and my studies. They provided feedback that helped me improve in areas I was struggling in and offered workshops to develop additional skills outside the core curriculum, like public speaking and problem-solving.
After my Business Administration apprenticeship, I wanted to take my career to the next level whilst, and a Management Apprenticeship seemed like the natural next step. I wanted to develop leadership skills and gain deeper knowledge about managing teams, decision-making, and strategic thinking, all while continuing to work.
The Management Apprenticeship has transformed how I approach tasks at work. I’ve gained a better understanding of leadership styles, how to motivate teams, and how to make decisions that align with business goals. In life, it has also improved my organisational skills, and I’m more confident in handling complex situations. The main outcome will be the ability to take on more responsibility in my current role and eventually step into higher management positions.
In the future, I aim to take on more senior leadership roles within my organisation. My long-term goal is to manage a large department or even start my own business. I also want to continue learning, whether through formal education or by gaining further industry-specific qualifications.