CMDA Review
at Lancashire County Council
Degree Apprenticeship
Business Management
Chorley, Lancashire
Review Submitted: September 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 am a Senior Leader in a primary school, leading safeguarding, attendance, compliance and school improvement. I work with staff, families and external agencies to support positive outcomes for pupils. The Degree Apprenticeship supports my role by developing my leadership, strategic planning and project management skills, which I apply directly in the workplace.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I have thoroughly enjoyed my Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship. It has given me the opportunity to develop my knowledge, skills and behaviours while applying my learning directly within my role. I particularly value the way the programme combines academic study with practical workplace experience, enabling me to grow in confidence as a leader and make a greater contribution to school improvement. Overall, it has been a highly rewarding experience that has supported both my personal and professional development.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Yes. I have strengthened my communication, resilience and project management skills throughout the programme. These have helped me work more effectively with stakeholders, manage competing priorities and successfully lead projects and improvements within the school.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The programme is well organised and structured, with clear expectations and regular support throughout. The staff at the University of Central Lancashire are knowledgeable, approachable and responsive, and I have always found it easy to access the guidance and resources I need. The support from both the university and my employer has helped me successfully balance my studies with my professional responsibilities.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive strong support from my employer, including a dedicated study day each week to focus on my apprenticeship requirements. I also benefit from regular progress reviews and ongoing encouragement from senior leaders, which has enabled me to balance my studies with my professional responsibilities and successfully apply my learning within the workplace.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I receive excellent support from my training provider. The tutors and staff are knowledgeable, approachable and readily available to provide guidance when needed. Regular reviews, clear feedback and easy access to learning resources have helped me stay on track and successfully progress through my apprenticeship.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
he qualification has helped me perform better in my role by increasing my confidence and improving how I manage my workload. It has provided me with practical leadership and management skills that I can apply directly in the workplace, enabling me to prioritise tasks more effectively, make informed decisions and take on additional responsibilities with confidence.
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
The qualification has had a significant positive impact on my performance and confidence as a leader. It has strengthened my leadership, strategic planning and project management skills, enabling me to take on greater responsibility and contribute more effectively to organisational improvement. The knowledge and experience gained through the programme have prepared me well for future career progression and given me the confidence to embrace new challenges and leadership opportunities.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Lancashire County Council to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Throughout my employment I have felt supported, valued and encouraged to develop professionally. The organisation has provided excellent opportunities for learning and career development, including support for my apprenticeship, which has helped me grow in confidence and take on new responsibilities.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Lancashire County Council?
My advice would be to take advantage of the opportunities available and be open to learning and development. Lancashire County Council is a supportive organisation that invests in its employees and provides a wide range of career development opportunities. Being proactive, adaptable and willing to take on new challenges will help you make the most of your experience and progress in your career.
