Joe, our Learning & Development Team Manager, is studying for the Level 5 Coaching Professional Apprenticeship alongside his role. Read on to find out more about his experience so far:

How have you found the Apprenticeship Programme?

I have really enjoyed the Apprenticeship so far. I came into the programme with some prior knowledge of coaching, but this Apprenticeship has given me much more confidence as a coach and a leader. It has been great to work alongside other retailers to see how coaching could be embedded in their organisations and to think about the many ways we could build coaching into our existing development offerings here at Lidl.

What was your biggest learning?

There is plenty of theory, from neuroscience and emotional intelligence to understanding the boundaries between coaching, counselling and therapy. Particularly interesting has been examining workplace culture and values, and how coaching can drive cultural changes. Personally, examining my leadership style and reflecting on how I can be a better listener and sharpen my questioning techniques has been insightful.

How do you now use your Apprenticeship Learnings in your day-to-day role?

I’ve reached out to several colleagues and have begun coaching them on a regular basis to assist with their personal development and career goals. I’ve also found this programme has helped me to adapt how I communicate with my team, by asking more questions and exploring creative options for problem solving. Whereas previously coaching felt transactional to simply reach a goal, I now feel confident to have transformational coaching conversations to come up with creative ideas and radical new solutions.

How did you manage the 20% off-the-job training? What are some examples of the 20% off-the-job training that you have completed?

The key part of this Apprenticeship is actually getting to coach colleagues 1-2-1, so for 2 to 3 hours a month I will spend time with someone actively coaching. In addition, I have been involved in a coaching triad, receiving coaching from others on the Apprenticeship which has helped me figure out solutions to my own problems.

What are the three words you would use to describe your apprenticeship journey?

Reflective, meaningful, empowering