Meet Aurora, Level 5 Departmental Manager apprentice studying at Winsford campus

Aurora chose to enrol on the Level 5 Departmental Manager Apprenticeship not for a career change, but rather an opportunity to gain the qualifications needed to support her progression into a new role within her company.

With a background in team leadership and staff training but no formal qualification to support it, Aurora saw the apprenticeship as a valuable way to develop her skills further. The course structure fits seamlessly around her work commitments, with most of the learning taking place during working hours. This has allowed Aurora to immediately apply newly learned strategies in her role, enhancing both her performance and her confidence.

At the moment, Aurora works for an engineering firm as an Administration Manager, leading a team of 13 people. The apprenticeship has been of significant impact, providing Aurora with knowledge and theoretical frameworks that have improved her management skills. Throughout the apprenticeship, Aurora has developed greater self-awareness, improved her problem-solving skills, and refined her ability to delegate. All of this has helped Aurora collaborate more effectively with other departments as well as improving customer interactions.

One of the highlights of studying at Warrington & Vale Royal College has been the tutor, Jenny. Aurora tells us that Jenny is dedicated to ensuring each student gets the most from their apprenticeship, and she provides the right balance of support and independence; offering guidance when needed while encouraging self-development. Jenny’s teaching goes beyond the course content, as she also provides advice on career progression and continuous professional development.

A particularly enjoyable moment on the course has been the unit on coaching and mentoring. Aurora found this topic to have a profound effect on her, demonstrating the potential to bring out the best in others. She values these skills not just for the workplace but in everyday life, from parenting to friendships.

Looking ahead, Aurora plans to pursue a level 7 qualification in coaching for leadership, with the aim of transitioning into a career focused on supporting individuals to reach their full potential. The apprenticeship has provided a strong foundation for this next step, equipping Aurora with the essential skills and knowledge she needs.

For anyone considering studying an apprenticeship at Warrington & Vale Royal College, Aurora highlights the supportive learning environment, in which tutors are committed to bringing together various resources to maximise students’ success.

Interested in progressing your career like Aurora? Check out this apprenticeship, and the wide range of other courses on offer using the link below, or get in touch with apprenticeships@wvr.ac.uk to find out more about how apprenticeships work.