Meet our Apprentice
Leejay Brookes, an apprentice at Sellafield, spoke to us about his experience on the Project Management Degree Apprenticeship
|
Name: Leejay Brookes Employer: Sellafield Ltd
|
Project Manager Degree Apprenticeship Do you feel studying at the University of Cumbria has benefitted you? I definitely think studying at the university has helped me – both in my career and on a more personal level. For me, moving away to go to university was not an option I really considered whilst I was in the sixth form – but I always aspired to achieve a degree level qualification. I now have the best of both worlds; I can stay at home and study on a day release basis by traveling to the university’s Carlisle campus once a week. This approach has been the perfect fit for me, the one day of studying is full of high quality, interesting information – I then apply this to my work placements and prepare for academic study in my free time. The lecturers at the university can’t do enough for their students – they are always on hand to support us and provide guidance whenever we need it. They’re so passionate about their field and it really reflects on us. I’m, incredibly grateful to have been given this opportunity, as the degree will not only form part of my apprenticeship: it will lead to more opportunities in the future. I know I will benefit in terms of project management knowledge, experience and continued professional development (CPD). Has studying changed the way you work / approach your own role? I really didn’t expect it to, but studying at the university has completely changed the way I approach my work. Previously I always completed my work on time but planning and prioritising was never my strongest point. Whereas now I’m so much more effective at balancing my work load for assignments and my day to day project roles. I often use the approaches I learned during my professional development module which are well suited to my learning style and personality. |
