Meet our Apprentice

Name: Emily Matthews

Employer: Gloucestershire Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust

"It has definitely increased my confidence at work, because I now believe in myself and believe in what I can contribute. I am feeling far less like I am an imposter the more I go through the programme."

Project Manager Degree Apprenticeship

What are your experiences of the programme so far?

It has been very well organised and well structured. We are given a set day a week for University (Wednesdays at the moment) and are given the exercises and slides on the Friday before the Wednesday session, so we can (if we want) get an idea of what the day will look like. 

It is mainly self-led which I found ‘weird’ at first, but actually it’s much easier to digest the learning through the mixture of exercises and slides, plus the tutor gives you feedback on your exercise work, so you can see if you have understood the question.

Has being on the programme changed your perception or your approach?

It has definitely increased my confidence at work, because I now believe in myself and believe in what I can contribute. I am feeling far less like I am an imposter the more I go through the programme.

Also, when people know you are doing the degree, they want to help you build your experience and evidence by giving you work to channel your training, which I love. 

I have also noticed I am challenging and questioning a lot more, the course has really helped me to reflect and not be afraid to challenge.

What benefits do you hope the PMDA will make to your organisation?

The PDMA demonstrates a commitment by the organisation to support and promote project management within the organisation.

Currently there are no degree qualified PM’s, so that will be a pinnacle moment for the organisation once we do. I hope this will make Project Managers a more recognised group and will build the profile of my Team, the Transformation Hub.

Build upon an already qualified and experienced team to allow wider and increased support of the organisation through change, development and transformation projects. I also hope that by having that level of experienced PM’s, we can support the organisation through change and innovation.

Would you recommend the University of Cumbria?

Yes, I would. I don’t have other University experiences to go by, but from other people I know who are doing MBAs at other universities, my experience has been much better, with regards to tutors getting back to you if you have a query and being very helpful. From my experience you are made to feel valued and not stupid, and the tutors put every effort to make sure you have understood the content.