Programme Manager Review

I support the leadership team of a national public sector organisation with delivery of non-BAU projects - the project could be anything that impacts people or any other part of the organisation. The organisation has around 2,300 employees.

I've been able to develop my research skills and understanding of theories and models, to help understand why people respond to change or show certain behaviours (and how you can influence those behaviours). I'm able to structure the way I approach programmes of work in a better way and understand the overall strategic aims of the organisation better.

I really enjoy it - one of the most valuable things to come from it has been meeting and studying alongside other people from across my organisation, who I may not have otherwise met. It's been really useful to build those relationships and networks. It also gives me time away from the office and the opportunity to learn something new, even though I'm 10 years into my career at my organisation.

There is clear structure to the modules and clear expectation set about assignments and assessments. Sometimes the apprenticeship requirements themselves can be a little confusing, including the requirements for Gateway, End Point Assessment, etc.

I made sure to set the expectation of support and agree the level of support required from my employer and team before I started the apprenticeship - something that I think is really important. I receive the support I need but know that other people have struggled where the expectation has not been set or agreed.

Support from the training provider is good, and they're on hand when needed. I think that some clarification around the end point assessment and gateway processes would be useful as people progress through the apprenticeship as it can be confusing and takes a while to get you head round everything.

It has been a useful qualification to gain and although it doesn't necessarily help me day to day there are lots of projects and programmes where it will be useful.

N/A - there are but I don't participate for the most part.

Yes

National organisation with a wide range of roles, good job security and good pay depending on where you are. There is lots of opportunity to progress, move around the industry, or carve out a career for life, depending on what you're looking for, and skills are very transferable to other organisations and industries.

Do your research on the company and the area of the business that you're applying to, as well as the industry. Try to get a good understanding of the role if you can.