Looking to progress his career to the next level, Jonathon undertakes the degree apprenticeship and gains the promotion he was looking for!

I started the degree apprenticeship when working as a shift manager in a pub. One of the reasons for joining the programme was to try to take the next step in my career, as well as helping with my personal development. Around half way through the apprenticeship, the opportunity arose for me to apply for a new position as a pub manager.

I was successful in this and was appointed, in March 2023, as pub manager of The Harry Clasper (Whickham). My area manager said that the degree had contributed in his decision to appoint me in the role.

I believe that doing the degree apprenticeship has given me the skills and knowledge which aided my success in the application process. It has also helped me to settle in my new job role, as I am a lot more confident in my own ability to perform to the expected standard.

The degree has helped me not only professionally, but also personally. I am a lot more aware of how I come across – not only as a manager, but as a person too. My business knowledge has increased which has helped my decision-making and made me more aware of the impact which my choices have and why I am making them.

The apprenticeship has allowed me to meet a wide range of people I would never have met if it weren’t for the course and making new friendships in the business.

My pub manager at the time of the degree’s start was amazing, as well as the support from the company, giving me a weekly study day incorporated into my 40-hour working week.