Discover how Tammy took on the Level 3 Team Leader/Supervisor Apprenticeship to reignite her career and build on over 25 years of retail experience. This is her story of growth, confidence, and career progression.
👤 Name: Tammy Rees
🏷️ Job Title: Duty Manager
🏢 Company: Wickes, Scunthorpe
🎓 Course: Level 3 Team Leader/Supervisor Apprenticeship
📜 Background: 25+ years in retail; wanted to move beyond Duty Manager after 6 years in the role
🎯 Why the Course: To grow her skills, gain confidence, and progress her career
🚀 Result: Gained leadership skills, boosted confidence, and stepped up as Acting Operations Manager
Background
Tammy has spent over 25 years building a career in retail, currently working as a Duty Manager at Wickes in Scunthorpe. Her journey began caring for dogs at an animal sanctuary, followed by factory work to support her family. After having her daughter, she moved into retail - a sector where she found long-term purpose, progressing through roles such as checkout staff, stock file controller, and customer service assistant.
In her current role, Tammy manages a wide range of responsibilities, from overseeing daily banking and customer deliveries to stock checks, booking in goods, and supporting her team on the shop floor.
Why the Apprenticeship?
After 6 years as Duty Manager, Tammy enrolled in the Level 3 Team Leader/Supervisor Apprenticeship to progress in her career, expand her knowledge, and reignite her passion for leadership in the retail sector. She recognised the need to grow professionally and felt the apprenticeship would give her the tools and confidence to move forward.
Apprenticeship Highlights
Tammy particularly enjoyed the learning experience through tutor sessions and coursework. The apprenticeship helped her understand business operations more comprehensively and encouraged personal reflection. It improved her leadership abilities, communication skills, and self-confidence.
"The apprenticeship made me take a proper look at myself and how I interact with both colleagues and customers. I’ve learned how to improve the skills I already had to become a better leader."
Impact and Future Aspirations
Without the apprenticeship, Tammy believes she would have remained unchallenged and stagnant in her role. Since completing the course, she has stepped up as an acting Operations Manager - a role that allowed her to apply her new skills in a practical setting. Although no permanent position is currently available, she remains optimistic about future opportunities and feels more prepared than ever to advance her career.
Support and Gratitude
Tammy credits much of her success to her tutor, Sharon, whose support was instrumental during challenging times.
"Sharon was amazing. She helped me through personal issues, encouraged me with my maths and never let me give up. Having the right tutor made all the difference."
Conclusion
Tammy’s journey is a testament to the power of continuous learning and personal growth. Her dedication, resilience, and passion for retail leadership shine through, and she stands as a strong example of how apprenticeships can transform careers and confidence.