Apprentice Achievements

Springfield Training Leads by Example with Operations Departmental Manager Apprenticeships

To understand the motivation behind this decision, we sat down with a senior leadership team (SLT) member at Springfield Training. Andrea Martin Head of Quality and Continuous Improvement shared her perspective on why investing in this qualification is essential:

“This course is future-proofing me for when we grow and develop as a quality team and an organisation. Springfield Training is on a mission—we want to change the world through education. To achieve this mission, Noel [Springfield Training CEO] looked beyond learners and employers. He delved into his workforce and designed a career progression opportunity for myself at Springfield Training.”

What is the Operations Departmental Manager Level 5 Apprenticeship?

The Operations or Departmental Manager Level 5 apprenticeship is designed for individuals in managerial roles, such as: Operations Manager, Regional Manager, Divisional Manager, Departmental Manager and Specialist Manager

This apprenticeship supports professionals in enhancing organisational performance, developing people management skills, and improving personal effectiveness. It equips managers with strategic thinking skills and a broader understanding of leadership.

The Impact on Springfield Training’s Leaders

We spoke with Andrea, about how the apprenticeship has shaped her role.

“In my previous roles as a Quality Manager, I managed the quality—I didn’t manage the people. This apprenticeship has provided me with a better understanding of what it truly means to manage people. I’ve learned that managing people is complex; every situation must be approached with caution, considering the individual, past experiences, and the organisation as a whole.”

Andrea emphasised that whether you’re a seasoned manager or just starting out, this qualification is invaluable:

“This apprenticeship provides the opportunity to restock, rethink, and relearn. It’s an essential qualification for all managers—something that all leaders should want to have. Most people pick up managerial traits from those around them, but this apprenticeship helps you reflect on different leadership styles and develop your own.”

Andrea, who has been part of Springfield Training’s leadership for over two years, sees her apprenticeship as a key stepping stone in her career.

“This qualification will open doors I never imagined. It forces you to think differently, approach situations with a strategic mindset, and always consider the bigger picture.”

A Culture of Continuous Learning

Springfield Training fosters a culture of learning and development within its workforce. Hollie Mather, Head of Marketing at Springfield Training, is also embarking on the OM Level 5 apprenticeship, seeing it as an investment in her future.

“Education is something I am passionate about. I truly believe that learning is a gift, and we should never stop wanting to learn.”

Hollie highlights the many benefits of apprenticeships, including: Learning while working, gaining nationally recognised qualifications, upskilling and making an impact within the company and standing out in a competitive job market

At just 26, Hollie is already leading a department but recognises the importance of continued learning:

“I’ll openly admit that I have a lot to learn. I need to understand what kind of leader I want to be and how the decisions I make for my department influence the wider company. This apprenticeship will give me more than just a qualification—it will give me confidence in my role.”

Springfield Training’s Commitment to Staff Development

Springfield Training is proud to invest in its people, providing them with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. Apprenticeships are a core part of the organisation’s strategy to enhance careers, build a loyal workforce, and equip individuals with essential leadership skills.

Hollie, who plans to continue her learning journey beyond the Operations Manager Level 5 apprenticeship, sees this as just the beginning:

“Taking on an apprenticeship is my first step in developing my managerial career. Once I complete my Operations Manager Level 5, I’ll be progressing to my Marketing Manager Level 6 qualification. I feel proud that my company values my education—it shows they have plans for my future.”

By championing apprenticeships at every level, Springfield Training is proving that lifelong learning is at the heart of its mission—not just for its learners, but for its own leaders too.