Arts Development Officer Review

Item: Arts Development Officer at Cheshire West and Chester Council
Rating: 4
Author: Anonymous

at Cheshire West and Chester Council

Level 3 Apprenticeship

Project Management

Chester

Review Submitted: April 2025

Overall Rating

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!

3.5/5 - Overview of Role

4/5 - Skills Development

3.8/5 - Structure and Support

Overview of Role

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

4/5

We lead creative development, projects and activities across West Cheshire working alongside both high-quality professional artists and communities.
Day to day I run projects, commission artists, manage contracts apply and report to funders, engage with communities, artists and arts organisations.

To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

3/5

I enjoy learning and testing new things. I've particularly enjoyed the coaching and workshop elements that allow you to discuss projects with fellow participants. Some of the deadlines have been a bit stressful, particularly around school holidays.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

4/5

Yes I've learnt lots of Excel and PowerBI skills, creating visualisations to support project storytelling. Also some project planning skills, measuring ROI etc

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?

4/5

The programme is very well structured. Split into several stages that build on each other to increase your skills and experience.

How much support do you receive from your employer?

4/5

I get all the support I've requested from my employer. We need to meet with our manager during each project to discuss it for feedback. The council also runs digital events regularly for apprenticeships which have proven really useful.

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

4/5

I've been able to book on for a few 1to1 sessions for additional tailored advice which has been really helpful, in addition to the coaching, workshops and feedback on written projects.

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

4/5

I think it will gradually allow me to support the team as I grow in confidence to use the skills I'm developing. I've already come up with some time saving initiatives and provided some visualisations to support projects. I hope this will allow us to better communicate the value of the work that we deliver.

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

3/5

There are virtual coffee mornings of various types. I'm invited to a Heritage social in a local pub. I'm sure there will be more, but I don't have much time with a family!

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Cheshire West and Chester Council to a friend?

Yes

Why?

I've always felt very supported by my managers to achieve at work. For example we are included in team planning and supported with issues / problem solving.

What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Cheshire West and Chester Council?

There are a huge number of very knowledgeable and supportive people working in the organisation. If you don't know the answer someone else will and I'm sure will be happy to help.

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