Unlocking Leadership Potential: My Transformative Apprenticeship Experience

Here at the University of Huddersfield, our dynamic business apprenticeship programmes are designed to propel individuals towards becoming better leaders and improving their management skills. Meet Sarah Durdin, one of our learners on the Senior Leader Apprenticeship. In this blog, Sarah tells us how the apprenticeship has boosted her confidence and leadership skills, enabling her to apply new knowledge, like data-driven decision-making and risk management, directly to her role.

 

Why did you decide to join our apprenticeship programme?

I decided to join the apprenticeship programme because after completing 12 months of an internal leadership development programme, I realised I was ready for something more challenging. My line manager, who had similar experiences, was very supportive, and we discussed what level I should aim for. I explored options with our apprenticeship lead, and then everything else moved really quickly—from having conversations to submitting my application, to now sitting in the lecture room.

I knew I wanted something beyond just remote learning; I wanted to be physically in a university setting, away from work, fully immersed in the learning environment. I also have a personal connection with Huddersfield, as I studied there over 30 years ago, and it felt like coming full circle, but now as a more experienced leader and adult learner. The programme has been an incredible experience, allowing me to separate work from study, and it's been exactly what I needed.

How has the apprenticeship programme impacted your personal development?

The apprenticeship has significantly boosted my confidence and enhanced my ability to apply new knowledge directly to my role. I learn concepts on a Monday, like risk management or data-enabled decision-making, and can immediately apply them in the workplace. This has given me a broader understanding and allowed me to connect with experts in these areas within my organisation, making me more effective.

The programme has helped me approach challenges with greater confidence and take on more responsibility. My manager even noticed the change within six weeks, pointing out how I’ve shifted from asking for guidance to taking initiative and checking in on my decisions. It's been a perfect design for developing both my skills and confidence at work.

What impact has your learning had on your current role?

The learning from the apprenticeship has had a big impact on my role, particularly in areas like data-enabled decision-making, risk management, and workforce planning. It’s helped me reflect on my practice and realise where I was already applying theoretical models, like Kotter's Eight Step Change, without fully appreciating it. Now, I’m more critical of my own process and ensure I complete all steps thoroughly, not just the ones I was naturally doing.

The knowledge I've gained from models and insights from peers across different sectors has also improved how I approach my responsibilities. It’s given me the confidence to adapt my practice and better fulfil what's expected of me in my role.

How are you finding the support from the tutors and services at the University of Huddersfield?

From day one, I have felt incredibly welcomed at the University of Huddersfield. The tutors know the organisation I work for and the leadership role I hold, and it shows in how they’ve supported me in the classroom. During the one-to-one sessions with a couple of lecturers, it's almost as though they understand how my mind works and how my writing style will evolve. This level of insight into how their learners think has been incredible.

The support from both the tutors and support staff has been fantastic, as well as from my peers. We help each other, creating a collaborative environment that’s really valuable.

On my personal journey, their support has empowered me to stay on track and meet deadlines, but they’ve also been flexible when needed. They hold me accountable while offering continuous support, which has been crucial. They’ve been absolutely brilliant.

I also have to mention the critical feedback I've received from the lecturers, which has truly stretched my writing skills. Looking back at the reports I wrote earlier in the course compared to what I’m producing now, there’s been clear growth. The feedback isn’t just surface-level praise; it’s meaningful, constructive criticism that helps me improve. It’s evident that they care about our development, both in what we learn and how we express it through our writing. This personal investment in my growth has been fabulous, and I couldn't be more grateful for the support they’ve provided.

What has been your highlight so far?

One of the highlights of the course so far has been attending the campus sessions. Being physically present at the university I first attended 30 years ago has made me feel like I’m truly part of an organisation and a learning journey. My cohort was the first for this apprenticeship, and I love being part of something new and different. The dynamic way it has all come together has been great.

Coming back week after week to learn from top-quality lecturers and engaging with a group of people who are all here for the same purpose has been fantastic. I really look forward to my Mondays on campus – it’s a time to connect with the lecturers, see my peers, and have those valuable conversations that deepen our learning experience. It’s been such a rewarding part of the course.

 

You can find out more about our Apprenticeships at the University of Huddersfield at -  https://www.hud.ac.uk/apprenticeships/