Kat Munro, Assistant Organisational Development & Continuous Improvement Manager at NECS gives us an insight into what it’s like taking part in an Senior Leader Masters Degree Apprenticehip.
Level and Name of Apprenticeship Completed: Senior Leader Masters Degree Apprenticehip (SLMDA) with MBA
Why did you choose an apprenticeship?
I believe the combination of academic study with workplace experience gives a well-rounded understanding of the topic and suits a variety of learning styles.
Why did you apply for this apprenticeship?
I had previously completed a L5 apprenticeship in Leadership and Management and wanted to continue my development journey. The SLMDA gave me the opportunity to work towards a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) whilst applying the academic theories and gaining hands on experience in a real world setting.
What are the rewards of doing an apprenticeship?
I have found many benefits to developing through an apprenticeship:
- Practical learning with real world experience
- Being able to develop my leadership skills with the support of theoretical principles as well as lived experience
- Networking opportunities through working with a cohort of fellow apprentices from various organisations (and many within the NHS)
- Greater confidence through my progression on the course
- Cost effective training funded via the apprenticeship levy.
Would you recommend apprenticeships to others?
Absolutely. Of course, everyone has to decide if the learning style is for them and it is not a small commitment, however, there is a great deal to be gained through this method of development.
Do you have any advice for future apprentices?
- Choose your course wisely, as rewarding as it is, it can be a real challenge to juggle study with work and home life and it helps if you have a genuine interest in the area of study, as well as it being relevant to your future career.
- Manage your time as it can be a lot to juggle, and you will have deadlines.
- Don’t make assumptions. Check your understanding of expectations; providers and apprenticeships differ in terms of delivery, end point assessment etc
What do you feel are the advantages of doing an apprenticeship over other training or education?
The combination of academic theory with on-the-job learning. Being able to apply the knowledge, skills, and behaviours in the workplace with the support of academic tutors and mentors, really supports development.
I found that as apprenticeships are open to everyone between the ages of 16 and retirement, the mixed ages on my cohort really enhanced the experience and it felt very inclusive.
Also, many courses are out of reach financially so being able to complete a course of study funded through the apprenticeship levy removes that issue and anxiety.
If you are interested in working for NECS, check out NHS Jobs for our latest vacancies.