Lian Kaczykowski is currently completing his Associate Project Manager Apprenticeship with Folkestone & Hythe District Council through Oxford Professional Education. Read on as Lian shares his experiences with his apprenticeship and the positive impact it has had on his career at Folkstone & Hythe District Council.
What was your background before starting your apprenticeship?
I was a Chartered Architect, spending many years working within the construction industry delivering a wide range of development projects.
Why did you decide to sign up to the apprenticeship?
To improve my project management skills, knowledge and experience. When working with other project managers I became aware that I needed to learn new terminology and processes. Within my current responsibilities I have found an emphasis moving more towards managing projects through a wider range of the delivery stages.
How are you finding the apprenticeship?
Coming back into education after many years has been challenging, however I have largely enjoyed the challenge. I have found the support from the tutors to be most helpful to keep the level of motivation to enable progressing at a good rate.
How does the apprenticeship support your daily work?
This has expanded my knowledge on project management processes especially within the larger organisation. This has also given me more of a knowledge base, growing my confidence within my work role.
Tell us about the company and what your job role involves?
The organisation is a District council largely delivering statutory council services to the public. I work within a small department, “Strategic Projects” where my core role is the delivery of affordable housing for the Council. My role also expands into other corporate development projects as needed.
How does Oxford Professional Education support you in your apprenticeship?
I have found the workshops and supporting sessions to be of a great help in achieving the tasks set. The exercises are valuable to determine the format required for examination responses.
Would you recommend this apprenticeship to others?
I would recommend the apprenticeship as it also allows the learning within workshops to be applied within the working environment and allows the opportunity to discuss these with tutors and working colleagues.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of starting an apprenticeship?
You need to be aware that the work will take considerable time and the small tasks throughout are essential to expanding your experience.
Oxford Professional Education offer a range of marketing, project management, and procurement apprenticeships. If you are interested in completing an apprenticeship or would like to hire an apprentice for your company, get in touch with our team to find out more.