A procurement apprenticeship is a great route for anyone who wants to build real experience while gaining a recognised qualification.

In this case study, we spoke to a Kyle who is currently completing the CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply as part of their apprenticeship. They shared what motivated them to choose an apprenticeship, what their week looks like, what they have enjoyed most, and what advice they would give to others considering the same path.

Can you tell us a bit about your role and the apprenticeship you’re currently completing?

I’m currently completing the Procurement and Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship. In my role, I support the procurement function by helping to manage sourcing activities, supplier engagement, contract administration, and market research. I work closely with colleagues across the organisation to ensure that purchasing decisions are compliant, cost effective, and aligned with organisational policies.

What made you choose an apprenticeship?

I chose an apprenticeship because I wanted a route that allowed me to learn while working, rather than studying in isolation. Procurement is a very practical profession, so gaining hands on experience alongside formal qualifications felt like the best way to build confidence and capability.

What were you hoping to gain when you first started your apprenticeship?

When I first started, I was hoping to build a solid foundation in procurement and understand how the theory works in real situations. I wanted to gain practical experience, develop my confidence, and learn the skills needed to progress in a professional role. I was also looking for a clear career direction and the chance to grow both technically and personally while earning a recognised qualification at the same time.

How has your apprenticeship experience been so far?

My apprenticeship experience has been genuinely positive and much more rewarding than I expected. The combination of structured CIPS learning and hands on procurement work has helped me grow quickly in both confidence and capability. I’ve enjoyed being able to apply theory directly to real situations.

What does a typical day or week look like for you?

My week usually involves a mix of operational tasks and apprenticeship learning. A typical week might include:

  • Drafting and reviewing tender documentation
  • Drafting and reviewing quality questions
  • Attending project board and meetings
  • Publishing tenders
  • Moderating
  • Completing CIPS study sessions, webinars, or assignments

What’s been the most enjoyable part of your apprenticeship?

The most enjoyable part has been seeing my skills develop in real time. I like learning a concept like risk management, category strategies, or supplier relationships, and then applying it directly to a live project.

What’s been the most challenging part, and how have you overcome it?

The biggest challenge has been balancing work responsibilities with the academic demands of the apprenticeship. There are times when deadlines for CIPS assignments overlap with busy periods at work, and it can feel overwhelming.

I’ve overcome this by:

  • Planning my study time
  • Breaking assignments into smaller tasks
  • Communicating early with my manager when I need learning time
  • Staying organised with calendars and reminders

What new skills or knowledge have you gained since starting your apprenticeship?

I’ve developed a solid understanding of procurement principles, especially around sourcing, contract management, and supplier relationships. I’ve also improved my analytical skills, communication, and confidence in working with stakeholders. The mix of theory and hands on experience has helped me understand how procurement decisions impact the wider organisation.

How has the apprenticeship helped you develop both professionally and personally?

Professionally, it’s made me more confident taking ownership of tasks and contributing to projects. I’ve learned how to manage suppliers, analyse data, and work more effectively with colleagues. Personally, it’s strengthened my time management, organisation, and resilience.

How have you found the support from Oxford Professional Education and your employer?

I’ve found the support from both Oxford Professional Education and my employer really positive. OxPE gives clear guidance, structured learning, and regular check ins, which helps me stay on track. My employer has been equally supportive by giving me protected learning time and supported me throughout my studies.

What kind of support has made the biggest difference to your progress?

The biggest difference has come from having people who are willing to explain things, answer questions, and give feedback. Being able to talk through real procurement scenarios with colleagues has helped me understand the theory much more quickly.

How do you balance working, studying, and other commitments?

Balancing everything has been a learning curve, but planning ahead has made a huge difference. I break my study tasks into smaller chunks, use a calendar to map out deadlines, and make sure I use my protected learning time effectively.

Do you feel more prepared for your future career now? Why?

Yes, I feel much more prepared. The apprenticeship has given me both the technical knowledge and the practical experience to understand how procurement really works. I’ve gained confidence, built solid foundations, and developed skills that I can apply straight away in my role.

Would you consider progressing to another apprenticeship or qualification in the future?

Definitely. I’d be interested in progressing to CIPS Level 5 or even a higher level qualification or apprenticeship in the future.

What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?

I’d say go for it. An apprenticeship gives you the best of both worlds, you gain real experience while working towards a recognised qualification. It’s a great way to build confidence, learn at your own pace, and develop skills that employers genuinely value. You don’t need to know everything before you start, you just need to be willing to learn.

What would you say to employers thinking about taking on an apprentice?

It’s also a good way to develop colleagues internally and upskill someone and shape someone’s skills to fit the organisation’s needs.

If you had to sum up your apprenticeship experience in three words, what would they be?

Challenging, rewarding, empowering.

 

Kyle’s experience shows how a procurement apprenticeship can support both professional development and personal growth. With the combination of structured CIPS learning and hands on workplace experience, apprentices can build strong foundations and feel more prepared for long term career progression.

Thinking about an apprenticeship for yourself or your organisation? We’d be happy to talk through your options and help you find the right programme.