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Training & Development Advisor Review

at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust

Higher Level Apprenticeship

Teaching

Darlington

Review Submitted: April 2025

Overall Rating

4.7 /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
4.4/5 - 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
My role focuses on designing and delivering training that supports staff development and drives organisational performance. I work across the full Training Needs Analysis (TNA) and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) cycle, creating engaging learning materials—including e-learning—and delivering sessions on leadership, wellbeing, and performance.
I regularly deliver and support staff at all levels, including senior leaders, and collaborate closely with department managers and my colleagues in Workforce & Organisational Development partners to ensure training aligns with strategic priorities. I also supervise training staff, manage training systems and data, and make sure learning environments are inclusive, supportive, and effective.
With a background in healthcare administration and team management, I try to bring a practical, people-focused approach to learning, underpinned by a commitment to compassionate leadership and psychological safety.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I really enjoyed the apprenticeship, there were times it was challenging but overall it was a great mix of practical learning and personal development. It gave me the chance to step back from the day-to-day and really think about how I work as a leader, what kind of manager I want to be, and how to bring out the best in others. I liked being able to apply what I was learning straight away in my role, and it was rewarding to see it in action.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
During my Level 5 Apprenticeship in Operational Management, I improved my skills in leading teams, managing projects, and planning strategically. I increased my ability in how to get the best out of people, give clear direction, how to prioritise and keep things on track with time. It also helped me feel more confident handling change, improving how things are done, and making sure team goals link up with the bigger picture. Along the way, I feel i have improved how I communicate and work with people at all levels.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The programme was well structured overall, with clear modules and a good balance of theory and practical work. It was easy to follow and fit well around my job, and the tutor support was great. The only downside was that sometimes feedback from one assignment came in after I’d already submitted the next, which made it harder to apply the suggestions straight away.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I received a good level of support from my employer throughout the apprenticeship. My manager was understanding about study time and gave me opportunities to discuss what I was learning and how it would apply in real work situations, which really helped it all sink in. I also had regular check-ins to talk about my progress and any challenges. It made a big difference knowing they were invested in my development.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
Overall I received good support from my training provider throughout the qualification. My tutor was approachable and available after classes to answer questions or discuss any concerns. The feedback I received was detailed and constructive. However, it could sometimes take a little while to get replies to questions emailed outside of class, which occasionally slowed things down, but overall, I felt well supported throughout the programme.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
I feel that completing this qualification is definitely helping me perform better in my role. It has developed my skills in leadership, project management, and strategic thinking which I can apply directly to my day-to-day work. The course is helping me to approach challenges with more thought and a more structured mindset and has given me the tools to improve team performance and manage change more effectively. Overall, it has made me more confident in my decision-making and in driving improvements within my team and the wider organisation.
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
Yes, our Trust offers a variety of Staff network groups and social/sports activities.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The Trust does it's best to foster an inclusive culture where everyone is valued, making it a great place to work, develop your career and make a positive impact.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust?
I would recommend being clear about your passion/interest in making a positive impact in healthcare when applying to CCDFT. The Trust values staff who are committed to patient care and are proactive in their roles. Be prepared to demonstrate your adaptability, as the environment can be fast-paced and requires flexibility. It is also important to show how you work well in teams and contribute to a positive, supportive workplace culture.
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