Professional Development Specialist Review
at Grandir UK
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Human Resources
Basingstoke
Review Submitted: March 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
In my role at Grandir UK, I lead on the design and delivery of leadership development programmes, induction, and neurodiversity training across the organisation. I am responsible for creating and facilitating learning that builds manager capability, supports inclusive practice, and aligns with the needs of the Early Years sector.
On a day-to-day basis, I design and deliver training sessions, support the ongoing development of programmes such as IGNITE, and ensure our induction experience effectively embeds new starters into Grandir’s culture and expectations. I also champion neurodiversity awareness, equipping leaders with the knowledge and confidence to support diverse teams.
My role is focused on developing confident, capable leaders and fostering an inclusive, high-performing environment across our nurseries.
On a day-to-day basis, I design and deliver training sessions, support the ongoing development of programmes such as IGNITE, and ensure our induction experience effectively embeds new starters into Grandir’s culture and expectations. I also champion neurodiversity awareness, equipping leaders with the knowledge and confidence to support diverse teams.
My role is focused on developing confident, capable leaders and fostering an inclusive, high-performing environment across our nurseries.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I loved it, I enjoyed learning and putting things into practice, I enjoyed progressing and finding out new tools and resources .
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Through my CIPD People Professional Apprenticeship, I have developed a strong foundation in core HR and people practice, alongside enhancing my practical skills in a workplace context. This includes building my knowledge of employment law, employee relations, and HR best practice, enabling me to approach people matters with greater confidence and consistency.
I have strengthened my skills in stakeholder management and influencing, particularly when working with managers to guide decision-making and support effective people practices. The programme has also developed my ability to analyse data and trends to inform actions and improvements.
In addition, I have enhanced my communication and facilitation skills, which has supported my delivery of leadership development programmes, induction, and neurodiversity training. Overall, the apprenticeship has helped me to apply a more strategic and evidence-based approach to my role.
I have strengthened my skills in stakeholder management and influencing, particularly when working with managers to guide decision-making and support effective people practices. The programme has also developed my ability to analyse data and trends to inform actions and improvements.
In addition, I have enhanced my communication and facilitation skills, which has supported my delivery of leadership development programmes, induction, and neurodiversity training. Overall, the apprenticeship has helped me to apply a more strategic and evidence-based approach to my role.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
Very well structured
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
Loads, my line manager was amazing with support.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
She was always there when I needed her.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
It helped me to get into the HR team and solely focus on what I wanted too, which is leadership development.
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 have been networking and attending seminars and webinars to enhance my learning and development.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Grandir UK to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I feel valued, appreciated and know that there is always potential for new learning, opportunities or another apprenticeship, and that is what motivates me.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Grandir UK?
It’s important to show a willingness to learn and develop, as Grandir places a strong emphasis on continuous improvement and supporting its people. Being open, collaborative, and proactive will help you succeed both in the application process and within the organisation.
