Training Executive Review

My role is part of the Learning & Development team based within our contact centre estate. The role is fairly varied in nature however some of my primary duties include the design, creation and delivery of training content which includes inductions, upskilling and coaching. Other duties involve working with training partners to ensure externally delivered training is aligned with our standards, from both a company values and compliance perspective.

As part of my apprenticeship I have been given opportunity to involve myself in new projects and work with other teams. This has certainly helped me gain new skills and insight into business operations from understanding business objectives and priorities, to developing my negotiation and communication skills. As part of my work within my apprenticeship I have studied the relationship between L&D and HR and how closely the two align and how they operate together within a business.

I've found the programme challenging at times in terms of time management however I have always come out of each module or assignment learning something new. My personal goals are to develop my skills and confidence so I can progress within my career, this programme has given me the platform and opportunity to do just that. Needless to say, I've very grateful and happy to be a part of this programme.

The programme is being facilitated by Watson Martin who have provided clear communication from the start. My line manager has been very clear when discussing the expectations and requirements from myself and what can be gained. I would say the programme demands personal organisation and discipline which is all part of my development. In terms of structure as a whole, I'd say it was well structured and and organised.

From the start the attitude from my employer, more notably my line manager, has been superb. Fortunately my line manager has experience with apprenticeships and has been able to guide, advice and support me wherever I've needed. When I've needed to spend time on the programme, whether it's writing an assignment or reading/research, I've been given full support and access to the tools and experience needed. I can't be more complimentary of the experience so far.

Since the start, as previously mentioned, the training provider has been excellent in terms of communication and providing workshops, catch up sessions and 1 2 1 sessions. The general attitude from facilitators and advisors has been very good and supportive offering good knowledge and professionalism. Unfortunately there have been a couple of advisor changes due to external reasons which were a little disruptive however I understand this can rarely be avoided. All in all, a positive experience.

I've found the work I do as part of my apprenticeship has directly influenced my day to day role. Many of my assignments have led me to gain understanding of certain areas of the business, including L&D and HR, which I had limited prior understanding or knowledge. My experience has helped with my confidence immensely and I feel this is reflected in my work. I am more confident when speaking to stakeholders around the business and outside of my area and I'm comfortable in giving my opinion and discussing matters relating to training and L&D.

Given the global events over the past 2 years it's difficult for any business to facilitate any extra curricular activities. I am aware Dixons has a number of online resources regarding well-being and personal development which I've navigated a couple of times. W have an internal social platform called workplace which often has groups dedicated to hobbies and interests which are great for people looking to network, share content and create discussion.

Yes

Dixons have supported me in terms of developing my career by offering opportunity. I began as part of the Technical Team offering telephony support to customers, now I work within the L&D team influencing training structure and supporting operational needs. I can only share my experience which has been very good and provided plenty of opportunity.

My advice would be, if you are interesting in developing and growing, to make use of the internal opportunities and schemes made available to colleagues. So long as you want to genuinely develop yourself and you're willing to put in the effort, Dixons can offer opportunity to develop, grow and challenge yourself.