Daniel Thackray

Enrolling and completing the Operational Department Manager Level 5 Apprenticeship has significantly developed my leadership and management skills. I now feel confident using the tools and skills that I have learnt to benefit the day-to-day running within my organisation. Theories and models that I have been taught are now common practice in my skillset as a manager, which subsequently mean I can better support all my staff and the future of my organisation.

Since finishing his Level 3 Apprenticeship at Lancaster & Morecambe College in 2020, Daniel has chosen to undertake the Operational Department Manager Level 5 Apprenticeship in his workplace where he is an Assistant Manager in a Retirement Home. Having completed this 3 year Apprenticeship and achieving a distinction, Daniel explained,

Enrolling and completing this course has significantly developed my leadership and management skills. I now feel confident using the tools and skills that I have learnt to benefit the day-to-day running of my organisation. Theories and models that I have been taught are now common practice in my skillset as a manager, which subsequently means I can better support all my staff and the future of my organisation. 

Previously in 2019, Daniel decided to enrol onto the Lead Adult Care Worker Level 3 Apprenticeship as he knew this would provide him with the necessary skills, knowledge and behaviours to progress in his career. Daniel was already in full time employment so taking on an Apprenticeship allowed him to fit his learning around existing work commitments.   

When asked why he chose Lancaster & Morecambe College (LMC) for his studies, Daniel explained: 

I chose to study at LMC because the College was local to me and I'd heard how supportive the tutors were. I was confident that by choosing LMC I would be able to access support and assistance if I needed it.

Daniel particularly enjoyed the flexibility that his course provided as he was able to tailor his studies towards his current role, as well as future career goals: 

I liked that I was able to pick optional units that were specific to my job role and further progression. I chose an optional unit related to management, which is what I’m aiming towards in my career, so this was really helpful.

Daniel felt confident throughout both of his Apprenticeships that he was given the tools he needed to succeed in the Health & Social Care industry: 

My tutor had previous experience in Adult Social Care and this gave me the reassurance that they could answer any questions I had in areas where my skillset lacked. My tutor taught me so many key skills for my role including communication, confidence and competence.

When asked what advice he would give to someone considering an Apprenticeship in Adult Social Care or progressing to Management, Daniel said: 

Think where you want to be in “x” many years and then you can tailor your Apprenticeship to not only support your current role, but also to prepare you for later challenges and opportunities in your career. It’s a fantastic opportunity, go for it!