A Journey into Leadership

Beth Etherington’s career path began in health and social care, with a strong academic foundation in Triple Health and Social Care at school. But like many people, life took her on a detour, studying International Event Management at university before the COVID-19 pandemic brought her back to care.

“I’ve worked in the care sector since I was 18. In 2020, I joined Heeley Bank Care Home, starting as a carer. About eight months in, I progressed to Senior, then onto Deputy Manager. In July 2023, I stepped up into the Home Manager role.”

This career leap coincided with her enrolment on the Level 5 Apprenticeship in Leadership and Management for Adult Care with Realise, training that became not only a requirement for the role, but a lifeline during an exceptionally challenging period.

A professional leap

When Beth became Home Manager at Heeley Bank, part of Monarch Healthcare, she identified key areas that she could help improve within the care home. As a new Home Manager, her apprenticeship studies and CQC inspections on the horizon, Beth had quite the mountain to climb.

“She stepped into the manager’s role just weeks after starting her apprenticeship,” explains Jo Pope, Beth’s trainer at Realise.

Beth found herself in the deep end almost straight away, juggling staffing challenges and maintaining compliance, all while leading a team and continuing her apprenticeship studies.

Despite the pressures, Beth remained committed to her progression pathway and steadfast in the positive difference she could make.

“Getting the qualification was a requirement to progress, but I was willing to do it - it also assists me to progress further in my career.”

“If I hadn’t completed the apprenticeship, I wouldn’t have had the chance to be a Home Manager - and I wouldn’t have developed the skills that I have now to help me lead and improve the home.”

Digging Deep

Beth’s trainer Jo was deeply committed to supporting Beth with her studies whilst navigating a demanding full-time role.

“She’s had so much on her plate. So, I worked around her and the home’s needs - changing appointments, listening to her concerns, and turning those concerns into learning sessions.”

Beth also lives with dyslexia, and Jo made sure that support was built in from the start.

“We kept meetings short and made sure she fully understood the teaching. The hands-on nature of her learning really worked for Beth.”

Worth every second

The impact of Beth’s leadership on the Heeley Bank is tangible with the most recent CQC inspection rating the home as ‘Good’ in all areas!

Beth felt elated, achieving a distinction grade at EPA and is thankful to Jo for her dedicated support.

Onwards and upwards

Beth continues to use and develop her skills every day - confident in her ability to lead, support, and make a lasting difference.

“I’ve been continuously learning and developing throughout the Level 5. The course helped me build knowledge of legislation and best practice and I’ve been able to transfer that into the home to improve outcomes.”

Here at Realise, we love to see our learners thrive, and Jo’s pride for Beth is undeniable.

“Beth has and will continue, to work hard for the staff and residents at Heeley Bank. “She’s putting them on the map as a good home.”

A massive congratulations to Beth – we’re thrilled to support you!

Inspired by Beth’s journey?

If you're ready to take your next step in adult social care, a Level 5 Leadership qualification with Realise can help you grow into the leader.