Senior Manager Review
at Department for Education
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Business Operations
Stoke-on-Trent, UK
Review Submitted: February 2026
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
I currently Contract Manage education contracts with providers and colleges, working with different people across providers, teams and government.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I have just completed the L5 Coaching and Mentoring Apprenticeship. DfE and my line manager were 100% supportive through my whole journey, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have managed people in the past, but this training brought a new emphasis on developing good matrix and line management
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
Ioda were very good, and clear in their structure of the course
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
My line manager and DD were excellent and very supportive
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
Ioda were very good, with my tutor offering extra support and feedback where required
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
I am able to manage self and others to a greater degree, ensuring bias does not enter my conversations and they stay positive
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
There is a coaching network, where we have a book club and peer to peer support which is excellent.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Department for Education to a friend?
Yes
Why?
It is a very supportive environment which encourages learning and development and the uptake of apprenticeships.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Department for Education?
Ensure you reflect on all your skills, ensuring you highlight them as flexible and transferable
