Internal Communications Business Partner Review

In my role as an Internal Communications Business Partner, I support the business by planning and delivering clear, engaging communications that help keep colleagues informed, connected and aligned with organisational priorities. On a day-to-day basis, this includes working closely with senior leaders and stakeholders, developing internal communication plans, writing and editing content for a range of channels, and supporting change and engagement initiatives.
I also provide advice on the best ways to communicate messages effectively, making sure information is accessible, timely and relevant to different audiences. Alongside this, I evaluate the impact of communications activity and look for opportunities to improve how we engage with colleagues.

The programme is well organised and clearly structured, which makes it easier to manage alongside a full-time role. The learning is broken down into manageable sections, with clear milestones and expectations at each stage, so you always know what you’re working towards. Support is consistent throughout the apprenticeship. Regular check-ins, clear guidance around assessments and helpful feedback mean you never feel unsure about what’s required. Any questions are dealt with promptly, and the structure of the programme helps keep you on track without feeling overwhelming. Overall, it feels well planned, supportive and designed to help apprentices succeed.

I receive a high level of support from my employer. I’m given the time and flexibility needed to complete my apprenticeship alongside my role, which makes a real difference in managing the workload. My manager is supportive and encourages me to apply what I’m learning in my day-to-day work, which helps reinforce the value of the programme. There’s a genuine understanding of the commitment involved, and I feel supported to prioritise learning, reflection and assessments when needed. The organisation clearly values development, and that support has helped me get the most out of the apprenticeship and apply my learning in a meaningful way.

I received a high level of support from my training provider. Blue Lion Training Academy has been approachable, responsive and supportive throughout the programme, making the learning feel manageable alongside a full-time role. My tutor was easy to contact and provided clear guidance, constructive feedback and reassurance at each stage of the process. Regular check-ins helped keep me on track, and expectations around assessments and evidence were clearly explained. If I ever had questions or needed clarification, support was readily available and timely. Overall, it feels like a supportive partnership rather than just a training course, which has really helped me stay motivated and confident while working towards my qualification.

The qualification supports my role extremely well. The learning is closely aligned to real communications practice, which means I’m able to apply what I’m learning straight away in my day-to-day work rather than it feeling theoretical. It’s helped me take a more strategic and structured approach to internal communications, particularly around planning, stakeholder engagement and evaluating impact. I feel more confident advising leaders, challenging approaches where needed, and using insight and evidence to shape communications activity. Overall, the qualification has strengthened both my practical skills and professional confidence. It’s directly improved how I approach my role and has helped me deliver clearer, more effective and more purposeful communications for the organisation and meeting objectives.

Yes

I would recommend Forterra to a friend because it’s a supportive and inclusive place to work that genuinely values its people and their development. There’s a strong focus on learning and progression, with opportunities like apprenticeships that are well supported and encouraged across the business. The culture is collaborative, and there’s a real emphasis on safety, wellbeing and doing the right thing. I’ve also appreciated the opportunities to connect with colleagues across different sites and roles, whether through site safety days, charity events or internal initiatives, which helps you feel part of a wider organisation. Overall, Forterra offers a positive working environment where people are trusted, supported and encouraged to develop their skills, making it a place I’d feel confident recommending to others - after all I have been here for 10 years!