Project Officer Review
at Barnsley Council
Degree Apprenticeship
Project Management
Barnsley, South Yorkshire
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
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
5/5
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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 really love my role at Barnsley Council and feel genuinely privileged to be working on such a meaningful project in Children’s Services. No two days are ever the same. One of my first tasks was organising a digital and tech conference for 400 students in partnership with Barnsley College and industry partners, which was an incredible experience.
Day to day, my work is a mix of creative and practical tasks — from designing event programmes and working closely with local schools and providers, to the behind‑the‑scenes project planning and finance work that keeps everything moving. It’s a role that constantly challenges me, inspires me, and reminds me why I’m so passionate about what we’re doing for children and young people in Barnsley.
Day to day, my work is a mix of creative and practical tasks — from designing event programmes and working closely with local schools and providers, to the behind‑the‑scenes project planning and finance work that keeps everything moving. It’s a role that constantly challenges me, inspires me, and reminds me why I’m so passionate about what we’re doing for children and young people in Barnsley.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I’m studying at Leeds Trinity University on a block‑release basis, alongside a fantastic group of professionals from a wide range of backgrounds. Learning in that environment has been incredibly valuable — we all bring different experiences, perspectives and strengths, which really enriches the course.
I’ve felt fully supported throughout, both by the University and by my employer, who are playing a big role in helping me balance my studies with my work. It’s a great opportunity to grow, reflect and develop while still being able to apply everything directly back into my role.
I’ve felt fully supported throughout, both by the University and by my employer, who are playing a big role in helping me balance my studies with my work. It’s a great opportunity to grow, reflect and develop while still being able to apply everything directly back into my role.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Coming into the role with some experience gave me a solid foundation to build on, but the programme has really given me the formal structure I needed to develop, reflect and grow. It’s helped me make sense of the skills I already had, strengthen the areas where I needed more confidence, and understand how everything connects in practice. Having that structured learning alongside real on‑the‑ground experience has made a huge difference to how I show up in my role and how I approach new challenges.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The programme was really easy to join, even with my late onboarding, which was managed incredibly well and made the whole process feel seamless. I really appreciate the block‑learning structure — having a new focus and set of assessments every couple of months gives a clear rhythm to my development and keeps everything manageable alongside work. Attending university in focused blocks also means I can fully immerse myself in the learning without any distractions, which has made a huge difference to how much I’m able to take in and apply back in my role.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I work in a small, supportive team, but being part of a large organisation means I’m also surrounded by colleagues from so many different disciplines who I can learn from. My manager plays a big part in that support too — she attends regular catch‑ups with me and the University, and we always make time to cover my apprenticeship in our 1‑1s. It makes a real difference knowing I have consistent guidance at work as well as academically.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I have access to a range of support — from the course leader and module leaders, to the University Learning Hub and the wealth of online resources available whenever I need them. I’m also supported by an apprenticeship coordinator who helps keep everything on track. Just as valuable is the support from my fellow students.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
The programme has definitely helped me perform better in my role because it encourages regular reflection and continuous improvement. I’m also learning about project management frameworks for the first time, which has been a huge benefit. Although I had experience to build on, I’d never had any formal project management training before, so gaining this knowledge has strengthened my confidence and given me practical tools I can apply straight away in my day‑to‑day work.
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
I'm sure there are opportunities available for me to get involved in, but I haven’t been in my role very long and starting a new job alongside the programme has naturally taken up a lot of my time and focus. For now, I’m prioritising settling in and keeping on top of my learning, but as things become more manageable, I’d definitely like to explore more ways to get involved in the future.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Barnsley Council to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Working in Children’s Services gives me a real sense of purpose, and I feel proud knowing that the work I do makes a difference. Because I live in Barnsley, being part of projects that deliver tangible benefits for the town I’m part of feels especially rewarding. Like any large organisation, there are the occasional frustrations, but everyone has been so friendly and welcoming that I’ve settled in really well.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Barnsley Council?
If you're thinking about applying for a role at Barnsley Council, be clear about why you want to work here and how your values align with the organisation. Do your research, use real examples in your application, and be yourself in the interview. There’s so much support, development and opportunity once you join, so show your enthusiasm.
