This month, we’re pleased to announce that Ben Edwards is the LMP Apprentice of the Month. Ben, 37, works at Broadland High Ormiston Academy in Hoveton, Norfolk, where he began his Operations Manager training programme on 25 June 2024.
Introduced to LMP by his employer, Ben was seeking to further his career and develop his skills as a manager. After meeting with a course coordinator and learning about the available pathways, he chose the Level 5 Operations Manager apprenticeship, recognising it as a valuable opportunity for career progression and personal growth.
Earlier in his career, Ben hadn’t found a clear path or received the support needed to pursue higher education, despite considering university. It wasn’t until he became a site manager for Ormiston Academies Trust that he experienced meaningful professional development and guidance, which inspired him to take up the apprenticeship route. Ben has found the programme immensely beneficial, particularly in gaining new skills, behaviours, and knowledge that have boosted his confidence and enhanced his performance at work.
He is especially proud of how far he has come in the apprenticeship, overcoming initial doubts and challenges with perseverance and the dedicated support of his LMP tutor, Tina, as well as his manager and peers. Ben finds great satisfaction in his role, especially in working alongside students and supporting them with work experience and on-the-job learning, which he describes as one of the most rewarding aspects of his job.
Throughout the apprenticeship, Ben has valued the unwavering support from his team and credits Tina’s guidance as instrumental to his success. The most important skill he has developed is self-reflection and self-awareness, which has helped him better understand his team and refine his management style. Looking ahead, Ben is considering pursuing an MBA to continue his professional development, feeling confident and motivated to build on the skills and knowledge he has gained through his apprenticeship.
Well done Ben – you are truly inspirational!
