Deb Shuttleworth has been working at Wigan Council for just over 4 years and in May 2022 she enrolled onto the Team Leader/Supervisor apprenticeship. We managed to find some time to sit down and catch up with Deborah to find out more about she’s finding the apprenticeship.
What made you decide to embark on an apprenticeship?
I’ve always enjoyed learning and following the pandemic I wanted to challenge myself and learn something new. Wigan Council were offering this apprenticeship alongside your current role so I thought I would find out more. I attended an engagement session and a colleague, who is currently on the apprenticeship, explained what was involved and I think that’s what made me want to do it. I felt that it was too good of an opportunity to miss and put myself forward. So far everyone involved have been really supportive.
What has been the biggest learning point of your apprenticeship?
I enjoyed the self-awareness module as it allowed me to understand myself better and I also found the time management techniques interesting. It was good to learn about models and theories which I am currently applying to my role but also being able to find new ways of working. I like to understand the learning styles of other people, how other people work, their different strengths and working styles.
How has the apprenticeship impacted on you and your development?
I feel I have learned a lot so far and I’m really enjoying the programme. It has taught me different leadership styles and theories to use within my role. I have recently been promoted to Transformation Project Officer for adult social care and health. I believe being on this apprenticeship gave me the confidence to apply for the role and I’m enjoying being able to manage multiple projects. Modules from the apprenticeship such as project management has really helped me increase my skills and knowledge and I have been able to apply aspects of the finance module to my daily tasks.
How has Damars approach to training contributed to the impact of the apprenticeship?
My coach, Katie Davies, from Damar is really supportive especially during the initial setup meetings and her ongoing support throughout the programme whenever we have planned coaching sessions. Katie is always available if I have any questions, at any time of the day. I like the fact I get to manage my own apprenticeship time and work around my current role. It helps having Damar Open Learning as I can access the resources whenever I need to and they are always there to go back to if required.