Team Leader & Operational Management Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships offer far more than just a qualification—they are a powerful tool for career development, skill enhancement, and progression into leadership roles. For those already in employment, they provide an opportunity to gain new knowledge, build confidence, and open doors to exciting new opportunities.
In this case study, we follow Kelly’s journey—a dedicated professional who discovered the true value of apprenticeships later in her career. Despite initial reservations about balancing work, study, and family life, she took the leap. The result? Two apprenticeships, two distinctions, multiple award nominations, and a thriving leadership career.
Kelly’s story highlights how apprenticeships are not just about learning—they are about transformation. Whether you’re looking to take on a leadership role, gain new qualifications, or develop your skills, her journey proves that it’s never too late to develop your future.
Let’s explore how apprenticeships made a lasting impact on Kelly’s career and how they could do the same for you.
What did you know about Apprenticeships before you enrolled?
I knew about apprenticeships and how they work, but I was not aware they were available to myself, or available for me to help with my career progression, until I saw it advertised on a communication by the trust.
Did you have reservations about enrolling onto the apprenticeship?
Yes and no. I knew it was going to be a lot of additional work, with working full time and having two children at home, but once I found out about what I would gain from the apprenticeship, and how it could help with my career goals I knew I had to take the opportunity while it was available and the right one for me.
“Kelly has made such an impact on the department. The way she has organised the ordering system, recording of maintenance on equipment centralising many systems so that we have continuity across the services. She has worked on staff morale to improve teamwork.“
– Deborah Cook, Manager
How has the apprenticeship benefitted you?
My first apprenticeship and diploma with CT Skills was the Level 3 Team Leader. I had only been on the course for a short amount of time and completed one workshop with additional self-study around the first topic when a job opportunity came up in a leadership role. My new knowledge gained from just starting this apprenticeship helped me in this interview. I do not think I would have gotten the job without this new knowledge, as I do not feel I would have been able to answer the questions as well and confidently as I did.
Two years later, I have progressed in my career; I have completed the Level 3 Team Leader, passing with a distinction, also passing my maths, and being nominated for Rotherham Apprentice of the Year 2023. I then signed up for another apprenticeship and diploma with CT Skills, knowing now what doors these can open for you and what new knowledge and skills you learn and develop as a person from completing one already. I went on to complete the Level 5 Operational Management, again passing with a distinction and being nominated for Health and Public Service Apprentice 2024.
With all the above, I cannot recommend apprenticeships enough if you want to progress and develop. I am so proud of what I have done and all my achievements over these past two years.
Kelly is a true example of what an apprentice should be and also the route that doing an apprenticeship can support with both career and development. She is an example of tackling obstacles like maths and overcoming these to build a very successful career.
– Sinead MacMillan, Trainer Assessor at CT Skills
Whether you’re looking to develop your current team or bring in fresh talent, apprenticeships provide a strategic path to achieving your goals. At CT Skills, we’ve helped countless businesses leverage apprenticeships to drive success. To learn more about how apprenticeships can benefit your organisation, visit our apprenticeships page or contact our friendly team today!