Progression Through Apprenticeship: Lauren Allman’s Journey

Lauren Allman shares how a Level 3 apprenticeship is helping her progress toward a senior support role at Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.

Lauren Allman, an Adult Support Worker at Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, is currently undertaking a Level 3 Apprenticeship to advance her career. Her motivation is clear:
“I’ve done the course to help with my progression into becoming a Senior Support Worker. I currently have a Level 2 but currently working towards my Level 3 just to help with progression really.”

Lauren completed her Level 2 qualification seven years ago, and this new apprenticeship feels like a fresh challenge. She explains:

“This apprenticeship course is very different to the one that I did previously. I was asked to do it by my manager.”

Having worked with the Trust since 2020, Lauren reflects positively on her decision:

“Yes, I think I’ve made a good decision. I am enjoying the course. It is very hard work but I am enjoying it.”

Support has been a key factor in her success:

“Yes, I do feel supported. If I’ve got any concerns I go to my manager about things. I feel very supported with Rosie, my assessor. It is a really good course.”

She acknowledges the challenges:

“I do think it is hard at times because obviously it is an apprenticeship, you work alongside, so you have to do a lot of it in your own time, which is sometimes hard to find a working life balance. But then at the end of it you’ve got your qualification and then it can help with progression if that’s what people are wanting to do.”

“Yes, definitely,” she says when asked about pursuing higher-level roles such as team leader or management positions in the future.

When asked what advice she would give to others considering an apprenticeship, Lauren is enthusiastic:

“I would say go for it, it is good for your progression. It’s a good qualification to have. It refreshes your mind about everything that goes into the principles of supported living. It’s all about person-centred care.”