Organisation Development Advisor Review
at Wakefield Council
Degree Apprenticeship
Human Resources
Wakefield
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
4.9 /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!
4.5/5
-
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:
4/5
To support organisational effectiveness by designing and delivering initiatives that enhance performance, improve culture, develop leadership, and align people strategies with business goals.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
During my apprenticeship in Organisational Development, I’ve built confidence by applying new skills in real projects and contributing to team discussions. Learning from experienced colleagues has deepened my understanding of OD fundamentals and helped me develop more strategic thinking. I’ve found real value in sharing ideas and best practice, which has strengthened my communication and collaborative skills. This experience is helping me grow both professionally and personally, laying the foundation for a confident and impactful OD career.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
As an Organisational Development Advisor, I have significantly enhanced my professional practice through hands-on experience and strategic project delivery. I have deepened my understanding of the core principles of OD, including systems thinking, behavioural science, and organisational culture. This foundation has enabled me to design and implement interventions that are both evidence-based and context-sensitive.
Through collaborative work with senior leaders and cross-functional teams, I have strengthened my strategic thinking skills—translating organisational challenges into targeted development initiatives that drive sustainable change. I am committed to continuous learning and actively seek opportunities to refine my approach, ensuring that my work adds meaningful value to the organisation and its people.
Through collaborative work with senior leaders and cross-functional teams, I have strengthened my strategic thinking skills—translating organisational challenges into targeted development initiatives that drive sustainable change. I am committed to continuous learning and actively seek opportunities to refine my approach, ensuring that my work adds meaningful value to the organisation and its people.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
I think the programme is really well organised. There’s a nice balance between workshops and learning on the job. The workshops give me the chance to step back and think about the theory, while the day-to-day work helps me put it into practice straight away. It feels relevant and useful, and the mix keeps things interesting and engaging.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I’ve had lots of support from my employer throughout the apprenticeship. There are regular check-ins to talk about progress and development, and I’ve been given opportunities to get involved in new projects, which has really helped build my confidence. I’ve also had the chance to work with partner organisations and support other teams, which has broadened my experience and understanding of the organisation.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I’ve had great support from my training provider. I have a skills coach who supports the apprenticeship elements of the programme and keeps me on track with my progress. There’s also a dedicated tutor for the CIPD taught sessions who provides clear guidance and support with assignment writing. The workshops are engaging and really help me understand how to apply the learning in my role.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
The qualification has really helped me perform better in my role. It’s given me more confidence and a stronger understanding of key concepts and practices in OD. I’m learning about the latest thinking in the field, which I can bring into my day-to-day work. The sessions also give me a chance to learn from others, which has helped me see different perspectives and apply new ideas in a practical way.
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, there are plenty of extra-curricular activities to get involved in. We have active staff networks, regular wellbeing events, and volunteering opportunities across the organisation. It’s a great way to meet people from different teams and get involved in things outside of your day-to-day role.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Wakefield Council to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Yes, I’d definitely recommend Wakefield Council. There’s a strong focus on learning and development, and I’ve felt really supported throughout my apprenticeship. Wellbeing is taken seriously, and there are plenty of opportunities to grow your career. It’s a great place to learn, feel supported, and make a difference.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Wakefield Council?
When applying for a job, it’s important to carefully read the job specification and link each requirement to your own experience. Use real examples to show how you meet the essential and desirable criteria, highlighting your skills, knowledge, and achievements. This helps demonstrate that you’re a strong match for the role and makes your application more compelling.
