We are delighted to announce the LMP Apprentice of the Month is Mahir Rafshan Ali. Mahir is a School Business Administrator who has at Sheringham Primary School. Mahir shared his story with us:
“I chose this apprenticeship because it gives me the opportunity to combine hands-on experience in a real school environment with professional development that directly supports my long-term goals. Working at Sheringham Primary has allowed me to see how strong administration underpins everything from classroom learning to leadership decisions. I enjoy taking initiative to make systems more efficient and professional, like transforming paper-based processes into digital formats, and this apprenticeship gives me the structure and support to keep improving. It’s not just about learning admin tasks; it’s about building the foundation for a future where I can contribute to a school’s leadership and make a lasting impact on how it runs.
The main benefits of an apprenticeship programme are the balance between learning and doing, and the opportunity to grow through real responsibility. You’re not just studying theory, you’re applying it daily, which builds confidence and practical skills much faster. Apprenticeships also help you develop professional habits, communication, and time management in a real workplace setting. For me, it’s also about personal growth, learning how to adapt, take initiative, and make a meaningful contribution while building a clear career path for the future.
I’m most proud of taking the initiative to transform our paper-based PEEPS and Return to School systems into fully digital, automated forms using Google Workspace. This change made the process faster, clearer, and more professional while reducing admin workload and errors. It was rewarding to see something I created being used daily by staff and SLT, it showed me how my ideas can make a real impact and improve efficiency across the school.
The best thing about my role is knowing that the work I do behind the scenes helps the whole school run smoothly. I enjoy being the link between staff, parents, and leadership, making sure communication is clear and processes are efficient. Every day is different, and I get to use my initiative to solve problems and improve systems, which keeps the job both meaningful and motivating.
I’ve been supported really well throughout my apprenticeship by both my employer and my LMP tutor, Veronique. From the very beginning, Veronique went above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable and settled into the programme, which made it easy for me to focus on my studies. My manager, Bally, has also played a huge role in my development, she’s given me the opportunity to grow, learn, and try new ways to improve processes. Even when things didn’t always work out, she encouraged me to think creatively, challenge old systems, and have the freedom to make meaningful changes.
The most important skill I’ve learnt is having the confidence to stand up for myself, not in a confrontational way, but in a way that shows self-respect and belief in my ideas. Once I gained that confidence, it branched out and helped me improve all my other skills, from communication and teamwork to problem-solving and leadership. At first, I was hesitant to speak up or challenge existing systems, but I’ve learned that positive change often starts with one voice and a bit of courage. This confidence has allowed me to grow, share ideas, and take initiative, qualities that I believe turn potential into real impact.
After this programme, my goal is to work towards a leadership position where I can continue growing and make a real difference in people’s lives. Whatever path I take, I want to be someone who supports others, whether that means guiding a team, helping colleagues develop, or simply being there when people need it. For me, leadership isn’t just about responsibility; it’s about empathy, encouragement, and creating an environment where everyone can thrive.”
Veronique Enright, Mahir’s LMP Tutor said: “Mahir is an exceptional apprentice. He started as shy learner and his confidence has skyrocketed, he always goes above and beyond expectations.
He liaises with the senior leadership team and has impressed the entire Trust with his positivity and ‘can do’ attitude.”
The Office Manager at Sheringham schools said “Mahir works hard and consistently supports the team with professionalism, reliability and a positive attitude. He has gone as far as introducing a new online reporting system via google forms that has improved the way we work as a team. He is forward thinking and uses his initiative and is able to communicate effectively with all of our staff members.”
Well done Mahir and best of luck in the future!
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