Learning & Development Manager Review

Item: Learning & Development Manager at County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue
Rating: 5
Author: Anonymous

at County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue

Higher Level Apprenticeship

Business Operations

Durham

Review Submitted: March 2025

Overall Rating

5 /5

The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!

5/5 - Overview of Role

5/5 - Skills Development

5/5 - Structure and Support

Overview of Role

Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

5/5

Managing the learning and development for staff across the organisation.
Dealing with firefighters, managers, senior managers and senior leaders.
Management of the training needs analysis and training programmes and apprenticeships, including management of the apprenticeship levy.
Interacting with training providers to ensure high quality training.
Line management and onboarding of operational firefighter apprentices

To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

5/5

One of the most rewarding aspects is taking management theories (e.g., leadership styles, change management models) and applying them directly to workplace scenarios.
This makes learning more practical and helps improve leadership decision-making.
The topics aligned with my day-to-day responsibilities (e.g., performance management, financial planning), so it felt more engaging and useful.
I was able to see direct improvements in my own team’s performance as a result of applying new strategies.
Having a mentors and workplace support makes a significant difference, helping with understanding and practical application.
Discussions with peers in similar roles also enhanced learning.
Carrying out Work-Based Projects & Assignments
Completing projects that relate to workplace challenges made learning more meaningful.
It’s rewarding when assignments lead to tangible workplace improvements.
Balancing Study & Work was a challenge of managing coursework alongside a busy job can be tough but also satisfying, especially when the learning leads to personal and professional growth.
I also enjoyed the following:
Seeing leadership theories work in real situations.
Gaining confidence in decision-making and strategic planning.
Improving team performance and engagement through new management techniques.
Networking with other professionals and sharing best practices.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

5/5

Leadership & Management
Operational Planning & Strategy
Decision-Making & Problem-Solving
Project Management
Change Management
Financial & Budget Management
Performance & Talent Management
Effective Communication
Emotional Intelligence & Self-Awareness
Negotiation & Relationship Management
People Management
Organisational & Time Management
Decision-Making
Communication & Influence
Adaptability & Resilience

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?

5/5

Really well structured, we have a delivery schedule shared on a TEAMS site that everyone has access to. The organisation allowed us to released from duty to attend and also provided us with the opportunity to stretch and challenge which allowed me to gain the opportunity to develop, whilst also gaining evidence.

How much support do you receive from your employer?

5/5

Lots of support. I was able to attend during the working week and as stated above, they gave me lots of opportunities to develop.

How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

5/5

Lots of support. Regular 1-1's and progress reviews. EPA support and preparation and guidance on completing off the job hours.

How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

5/5

I have received a promotion through completion of the apprenticeship and will be enrolling on the MBA Senior Leader apprenticeship in May.

Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

5/5

Yes, lots of opportunities. Sports and Social club, free gym access and healthcare. We have golf, boxing, football, rugby teams that everyone has the opportunity to join.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue to a friend?

Yes

Why?

Its a brilliant place to work, the organisation really push to you to develop yourself, offering lots of training opportunities which lead to progression.
We have great facilities and good organisational culture. Apprenticeships are intrinsic across the organisation and staff are completing these at all levels.