The Associate Project Manager Apprenticeship is designed to combine structured learning with project delivery experience. For professionals looking to strengthen their project management skills while gaining recognised qualifications such as the Project Management Qualification (PMQ) and Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ), this Level 4 apprenticeship offers a practical and career-focused route.
In this Q&A, a Project Support Coordinator, Tilly shares her experience of completing the Associate Project Manager Apprenticeship, including how she balanced work and study and how the programme has supported her career progression.
Can you tell us a bit about your role and the apprenticeship you’re currently completing?
I’m a Project Support Coordinator working within Real World Solutions at IQVIA. I’m currently completing the Associate Project Manager Apprenticeship, which includes achieving both the Project Management Qualification (PMQ) and the Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ), alongside the Level 4 apprenticeship.
The apprenticeship is helping me build the skills and knowledge I need to contribute more effectively to project delivery and coordination.
What made you choose an apprenticeship?
I chose an apprenticeship because it offered the ideal balance between structured learning and hands-on experience. I wanted to strengthen my project management skills in a way that directly linked to my day-to-day role, allowing me to apply new knowledge straight away and build confidence as I progressed.
What were you hoping to gain when you first started your apprenticeship?
My main aim was to develop a strong foundation in project management principles and best practice. I wanted to gain recognised qualifications to support my career progression, while also building practical skills that would make me more effective in my current role.
How has your apprenticeship experience been so far?
It’s been incredibly rewarding. I’ve gained exposure to different aspects of project delivery, strengthened my organisational skills, and developed a much clearer understanding of how projects run. The mix of academic learning and real-world application has really kept me motivated.
What does a typical day or week look like for you?
No day or week ever looks quite the same. My role is varied. I might be supporting project teams, coordinating tasks, planning timelines or reviewing documentation. It depends on the projects I’m involved in at the time.
What’s been the most challenging part, and how have you overcome it?
Balancing workload with study has been the biggest challenge. I’ve managed it by planning ahead, setting aside dedicated study time each week, and being open with my team about my commitments. Having a clear structure has helped me stay on top of everything without becoming overwhelmed.
What new skills or knowledge have you gained since starting your apprenticeship?
I’ve strengthened my planning, risk management and communication skills, and gained a more strategic understanding of the project lifecycle. This has helped me support delivery teams more effectively and increased my confidence when handling more complex tasks.
How have you found the support from Oxford Professional Education and your employer?
The support has been excellent. My training provider offers structured learning, helpful guidance and timely feedback. At work, my team have been brilliant — checking in regularly, helping me prioritise during busy periods and giving me opportunities to put my learning into practice.
What kind of support has made the biggest difference?
Regular check-ins and the flexibility to balance study with project work have made the biggest difference. Having colleagues who share their knowledge and provide constructive feedback has also been invaluable.
Would you consider progressing to another qualification in the future?
Absolutely. I’m open to further qualifications that deepen my skills in project management, leadership or operational delivery. This apprenticeship has shown me how valuable continuous professional development can be.
What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?
Go for it. An apprenticeship is a fantastic way to learn while gaining real work experience. It does require strong time management, but the support is there and the benefits far outweigh the challenges.
You gain valuable skills, recognised qualifications and the confidence that comes from applying what you learn straight away.
What would you say to employers considering taking on an apprentice?
Taking on an apprentice is a brilliant investment. Apprentices bring enthusiasm and fresh perspectives, and with the right support they quickly become highly capable team members. It’s a great way to develop talent within the organisation.
If you’re looking to strengthen project delivery capability within your organisation, the Associate Project Manager Apprenticeship offers a structured and practical way to develop your team.
Equip your employees with recognised qualifications such as PMQ and PFQ while building real-world skills that directly impact project performance.