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Higherin
Grandir UK

Digital Marketing Executive Review

at Grandir UK

Higher Level Apprenticeship

Digital Marketing

Basingstoke

Review Submitted: April 2025

Overall Rating

3.4 /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!

3/5 - Overview of Role
3/5 - Skills Development
3.6/5 - Structure and Support

Overview of Role

Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
3/5
As a Digital Marketing Executive, my role is both varied and dynamic, covering a broad range of responsibilities within our marketing team. On a day-to-day basis, I manage our social media presence across multiple platforms — this includes content planning, creation, scheduling, and engagement to ensure our brand remains active and connected with our audience.
I’m also involved in creative aspects such as design and video editing, producing visually engaging assets that align with our campaigns and brand identity. Another key part of my role is overseeing and optimising digital advertising campaigns to drive traffic, conversions, and brand awareness.
While my core focus lies in social media, design, video, and advertising, I often collaborate across departments and lend support wherever needed. This flexibility allows me to stay hands-on with different aspects of digital marketing and contribute to the team’s wider goals.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
I’d say I have mixed feelings about the programme. On one hand, I definitely see the value in what I’m learning and I understand how important it is to build a strong foundation in business and marketing strategy. It’s helped me develop a broader perspective and given me tools I wouldn’t have otherwise come across in my day-to-day role.
That said, I do find it challenging at times — especially when it comes to balancing my apprenticeship studies with my workload. Managing deadlines and trying to prioritise both work and learning can feel overwhelming, and that does take away from the enjoyment of the experience.
I also find some of the more “business-heavy” parts of the course less engaging. It sometimes feels more like I’m doing a general business qualification rather than something focused on digital marketing, which is where my real passion lies. But even though I’m not hugely enjoying it right now, I do recognise that these elements are helping me grow and will ultimately support my long-term development.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
3/5
Yes, through my apprenticeship, I’ve been learning a lot more about business than I previously knew — especially in relation to how marketing fits into the bigger picture. The first module has been really insightful, covering core marketing principles like the 7Ps and exploring strategic tools such as the BCG Matrix and the Ansoff Matrix in depth.
These frameworks have helped me better understand how businesses make decisions, set objectives, and assess opportunities for growth. It’s not just about executing campaigns — I’m now able to consider things like market positioning, product lifecycle, and risk when planning or contributing to marketing activity.
This deeper dive into business and strategy is helping me develop a more commercial mindset, which has been really valuable. I’m gaining the ability to think beyond the creative side of digital marketing and understand the 'why' behind the strategies we use, which is already influencing how I approach my work day to day.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
To be honest, I don’t feel the programme has been particularly well organised. There have been several instances where things haven’t run as smoothly as they should.
At the start of the course, I was assigned a tutor who was completely new to the business and, unfortunately, didn’t even know what qualification I was studying. This wasn’t helpful at all, especially in the early stages when guidance is so important. I did request a new tutor fairly quickly and was reassigned to someone with more experience, which made a big difference.
In general, the beginning of the programme felt quite overwhelming — there were too many meeting links sent all at once, and the transition from Zoom to Teams mid-way through only added to the confusion for some learners. Overall, it’s felt a bit up in the air and lacking in clear structure. It hasn’t been totally smooth sailing, which can make it harder to stay focused and confident in the process.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I’ve received an incredible amount of support from my employer — in fact, they’ve been the most supportive part of my apprenticeship journey so far. My learner coordinator at Grandir UK has been absolutely amazing, consistently checking in on me, offering guidance, and making sure I’m on track. They've gone out of their way to arrange regular meetings focused on both my progress and my wellbeing, which has made a huge difference.
They also organised a mentor for me within the business, who has been phenomenal in helping me complete assignments and activities. Having that kind of support system in place has made me feel secure and genuinely cared for throughout the process. I’ve leaned on my employer more than anyone since I started, and I feel really lucky to have that level of backing.
The biggest challenge I’m still facing is learning how to balance my workload with my studies. Working full time while completing an apprenticeship definitely puts pressure on my work-life balance, and it’s something I’m still adjusting to. But having the right support around me has made that learning curve more manageable, and I’m gradually figuring out how to prioritise and manage my time more effectively.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
The support I receive from my training provider has been quite good, especially when I reach out for assistance. My tutor doesn't tend to check in with me unless I make the first move, which was something I didn’t expect. However, I actually appreciate this approach as it allows me to work independently and focus on my tasks without constant interruptions. I’m glad they don’t overwhelm me with frequent check-ins, and instead, I have the freedom to reach out when I need help.
They do encourage regular meetings at least once a month to discuss progress, which has been helpful. Whenever I’ve had any issues or concerns, my tutor has always ensured we schedule a meeting to talk through my thoughts and address the challenges I’m facing. During these sessions, they take the time to walk me through what I need to do and help me with any questions I have about assignments or tasks.
Overall, I feel supported and know that when I need guidance, it’s available — I just have to take the initiative to ask for it. This balance has worked well for me, as it allows me to stay focused while knowing I have the support I need when necessary.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
I truly believe that this qualification is helping me perform better in my role, and will continue to do so as I progress. It’s giving me a much deeper insight into the why behind the tasks I do every day, which is incredibly valuable. Understanding the reasoning and strategy behind what I’m executing allows me to approach my work with more purpose and focus.
The course is helping me see the bigger picture, especially when it comes to the impact of my actions and how they contribute to the overall business and marketing strategy. I can also apply what I’m learning to improve my daily tasks and the campaigns I’m involved in. As I continue through the qualification, I know the skills and knowledge I’m gaining will directly enhance my effectiveness and enable me to perform even better in my role.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
4/5
At my organisation, we don’t typically have many traditional extra-curricular activities. However, we do have a bi-weekly 'Team Together' session on Thursdays, which is a great opportunity to engage with colleagues. During these 30-minute sessions, we complete a team-building activity that helps strengthen our collaboration and communication. It’s a fun and positive way to connect with others in the office and take a break from the usual routine.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Grandir UK to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The company has been incredibly supportive in terms of professional development. I’ve felt valued and well-supported through my apprenticeship. My apprenticeship and learner coordinator has gone above and beyond to ensure I have the guidance I need, and I’ve had excellent mentorship within the organisation.
The work environment is welcoming, and there’s a genuine sense of collaboration and teamwork. I also appreciate the balance they strike between offering the support I need and allowing me the autonomy to manage my work. For anyone looking for a supportive and dynamic workplace with opportunities for growth, I’d recommend Grandir UK.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Grandir UK?
My advice would be to be prepared for a supportive and dynamic environment where you’ll be encouraged to grow and take ownership of your role. Embrace the collaborative nature of the company — teamwork and communication are key to success here, and being open to working closely with others will help you thrive. Don’t hesitate to make the most of the support available to you. It’s also important to be proactive. The company values individuals who are self-motivated and who take the initiative, so make sure you’re ready to take responsibility for your own learning and development.
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