Case Study:

Programme: Level 7 CMI Extended Diploma in Leadership and Management Apprenticeship
Organisation: Halton Council

From Operational Manager to Strategic Leader: Pamela’s Apprenticeship Journey

When Pamela Marsden, Practice Manager for Registered Social Workers at Halton Council, began the Level 7 CMI Extended Diploma in Leadership and Management apprenticeship, she already had extensive leadership experience behind her. Having built a successful career in the third sector before qualifying as a social worker later in life, she had progressed quickly into management roles. Yet she felt there was still more to learn.

“I’d been managing people for many years, but I’d never had the opportunity to really step back and focus on strategic leadership,” Pamela explains.

A chance to invest in leadership development

Supported through apprenticeship levy funding, Pamela saw the qualification as a unique opportunity to develop her skills, broaden her knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of how local government operates. She describes the opportunity as both “amazing” and a “privilege”.

Balancing a demanding role with study was not always easy. The programme required dedicated study time, assignments, presentations and portfolio work, alongside independent learning and reading. However, Pamela quickly found the investment worthwhile and the flexible approach helped.

Learning beyond her service area

One of the most valuable aspects of the programme was the opportunity to look beyond her day-to-day responsibilities and gain insight into the wider local authority landscape. Through workshops, online learning and guest speakers, Pamela developed a greater understanding of areas such as corporate finance, human resources, governance and strategic leadership.

Meeting senior leaders from across the North West and hearing how different services and departments work together gave her a broader perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing local government today.

“Sharing knowledge and experiences with other learners was invaluable. It gave me different perspectives and helped me build my confidence, together with support from my mentor which was invaluable.”

Growing in confidence

Throughout the apprenticeship, Pamela was supported by a dedicated mentor who encouraged her to reflect on her development as a leader and recognise the value of the experience she already brought to the role.

The programme helped her realise that leadership is not about fitting a particular mould. Instead, it is about drawing on a wide range of experiences, perspectives and skills to make a meaningful contribution.

Making a bigger impact

Since completing the programme, Pamela has felt more confident contributing at a strategic level. She has been able to take part in strategic task and finish groups, contributed to reports and brings fresh thinking to discussions beyond her immediate area of responsibility.

Crucially, the apprenticeship has given her the confidence to recognise the value of her own voice.

By combining her experience from the private sector, voluntary sector and social care, Pamela feels better equipped to contribute to senior discussions and influence decision-making across the organisation.

Pamela’s reflection

“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to complete this qualification through levy funding. It’s given me a much broader understanding of leadership and the confidence to contribute at a more strategic level. It helped me recognise that the skills and experience I’ve built throughout my career are valuable and transferable, and that I can bring something meaningful to the conversation.”