To mark the final day, we spoke with Leonie Thompson, Head of Assessment and Quality Assurance at NOCN Group, who is currently undertaking a Senior Leadership apprenticeship. As both an experienced professional and a current apprentice, Leonie offers a unique perspective. Here, she shares why she chose this route, what she’s gained so far and why apprenticeships continue to be such a transformative development opportunity.

Why did you choose an apprenticeship and what were you hoping to gain when you first started?

Learning has always been central to my role; choosing an apprenticeship allowed me to continue performing in my senior role at NOCN Group while gaining structured learning that I could immediately apply in practice.

From the outset, I wanted to deepen my understanding of strategic leadership, particularly in areas such as organisational governance, financial sustainability, horizon scanning, and leading change. The Senior Leader apprenticeship aligns perfectly with developing the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to operate at a strategic level, including systems thinking, ethical leadership, and driving organisational performance.

For me, it was also about progression. I wanted greater insight into the responsibilities and mindset of a senior leader so I can continue to grow within NOCN Group and contribute more strategically to our long-term success.

What’s the most useful thing you’ve learned on the job?

Every day is a learning day; no two days are ever the same. One of the most valuable areas of learning has been gaining deeper insight into Ofqual regulation and quality assurance across apprenticeships and qualifications. Understanding the regulatory landscape at a strategic level strengthens decision-making and ensures we operate with integrity and compliance.

The apprenticeship has changed my ability to think more commercially, strategically and systemically, not just operationally.

How has the apprenticeship helped you grow professionally?

The apprenticeship has strengthened my understanding of organisational structures, governance and long-term strategy. Developing skills in horizon scanning, data-driven decision-making and strategic risk management.

It has also developed key leadership behaviours such as resilience, inclusivity, ethical judgement and leading through influence. I now approach challenges considering financial sustainability, stakeholder impact and future growth rather than just immediate operational outcomes.

Importantly, it has reinforced the importance of continuous improvement and reflective practice core behaviours within senior leadership.

Did anything surprise you about your apprenticeship when you began?

Having worked in apprenticeships for over 20 years, I wasn’t surprised by the structure or commitment required.

It reaffirmed for me that apprenticeships are not just entry-level programmes; they are powerful professional development routes at every stage of a career.

What opportunities has your apprenticeship opened up?

The apprenticeship has given me greater visibility and understanding of NOCN Group as a whole organisation, commercially, strategically, and operationally. It has exposed me to areas of the business I may not previously have had full insight into, strengthening cross-functional awareness and collaboration.

It has also positioned me to contribute more confidently to strategic discussions and long-term planning. By developing knowledge in governance, financial frameworks, innovation and change management, I am better equipped to support sustainable growth and organisational success.

Ultimately, it opens doors to progression because it demonstrates both capability and commitment to senior leadership development.

What would you say to someone who thinks apprenticeships aren’t for them?

Go for it! Apprenticeships are one of the most powerful professional development routes available. You gain structured, high-quality learning, expert support and mentorship while earning and continuing to build your career. What’s not to like about developing knowledge and skills while being paid?

Apprenticeships support progression at every level from entry roles to senior leadership. They build confidence, credibility, and capability. For me, apprenticeships represent exactly what lifelong learning should look like: practical, applied and relevant.

Leonie’s experience highlights something important: apprenticeships are not just a starting point – they're a strategic investment in long-term professional growth. Whether at entry level or senior leadership, they provide structured development, practical application and meaningful progression.

At NOCN Group, we’re proud to champion apprenticeships at every level of our organisation, supporting colleagues to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to lead with confidence and impact.

If you’re interested in careers at NOCN Group, find out more here: NOCN Careers - NOCN