Growing in Confidence and Capability

How Nadine Advanced Her HR Career Through the Level 5 People Professional Apprenticeship

At a glance:

👤 Name: Nadine Casey
🎓 Programme: Level 5 People Professional
💼 Role: HR Operations Specialist, Lumanity
🎯 Key Goals: Career progression, gaining confidence, building strategic HR skills, securing a promotion
🏆 Outcome: Promoted from HR Executive to HR Operations Specialist shortly after completing the apprenticeship

A Clear Ambition to Grow

For Nadine, becoming a stronger, more confident HR professional wasn’t just a nice ambition — it was a commitment she made to herself and her future career. After years of varied experience, a growing passion for HR, and a desire to take on greater responsibility, she enrolled onto the Level 5 People Professional apprenticeship to build the skills, confidence and strategic capability she knew she needed.

“I wanted to progress my career, develop new skills and increase my confidence. I knew this course could help me move into the roles I aspire to.”

And it did — shortly after completing the programme, Nadine achieved a well-deserved promotion to HR Operations Specialist.

A Career Built on Curiosity, Courage and Continuous Learning

Nadine’s career journey began early, leaving school at 16 to start working in an office environment, where her exposure to HR sparked an early interest. She later pursued a completely different path as a qualified beautician and hair stylist, strengthening her communication and customer service skills.

A return to office work reignited her passion for HR. Within six months of starting as a receptionist, she was promoted into HR administration — the moment she realised HR was where she belonged. After progressing through roles, gaining her Level 3 CIPD qualification, and joining Lumanity in 2021, she decided to take the next big step in 2023: enrolling on the Level 5 People Professional apprenticeship.

“I wanted to feel more confident, more capable and ready for greater responsibility.”

A Transformative Learning Experience

What Nadine valued most about the programme was its balance of theory, strategy and practical application. Key modules — including engagement, performance, organisational development and change — helped her understand how HR decisions impact the wider organisation.

“The course made my learning immediately applicable. It helped me adopt a more evidence-based approach and gave me tools to support both individuals and the wider organisation.”

Peer collaboration across sectors broadened her thinking, while reflective assessments strengthened her analytical skills and professional judgement.

Support That Truly Made a Difference

Nadine credits much of her success to her Realise trainer, Bim.

“Bim isn’t just a trainer — she is a partner in my learning journey. She collaborates with me on every project, supports me with complex topics and encourages my creativity. I have genuinely felt supported every step of the way.”

Impact: A More Strategic, Confident HR Professional

The apprenticeship has transformed how Nadine works — from everyday decision-making to long-term HR initiatives. She now applies structured, evidence-based frameworks, contributes more confidently to strategic conversations and supports organisational change with greater insight.

Her increased capability and confidence led directly to her promotion from HR Executive to HR Operations Specialist.

“If I hadn’t completed the course, I wouldn’t approach challenges with the same confidence or strategic insight. The qualification has truly elevated how I work.”

Looking Ahead

Nadine continues to apply her learning to improve HR processes, mentor others and support organisational development. The apprenticeship has empowered her to take on more responsibility and pursue long-term career goals with confidence.

Nadine’s journey shows how powerful an apprenticeship can be in building confidence, strengthening professional capability and opening doors to new career opportunities. Her promotion is not just a milestone — it’s a reflection of her commitment to growth and her willingness to invest in her future.

Start Your Journey Today.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your HR career — whether you want to boost your confidence, gain strategic skills or progress into a more senior role — our People Professional programme can help you get there.

Get in touch with Realise to explore the right apprenticeship for your goals.