We caught up with Scott Kibble from Malvern Active on the Level 3 Leisure Duty Manager apprenticeship. Scott proves it’s never too late to gain your qualification and progress your career, whatever stage you’re at. He shares how the apprenticeship helped him reflect on his own management style, adapting his practices while inspiring him to push his career to the next level upon completion.
What inspired you to choose an apprenticeship?
I wanted to extend my skills and knowledge. I also wanted to gain my Level 2 Functional Skills, as when I was in school, my grades weren’t the best.
How has your apprenticeship helped you both personally and professionally?
I have been in the leisure industry for a long time, and I was able to use the skills and knowledge that I have gained from working in various positions to help me answer the required outcomes to the best of my ability. It has also shown me the type of management style I use, but also how to be adaptable to use other types depending on who I am working with.
How has your apprenticeship prepared you for your future career goals?
It has given me the confidence to push on to the next stage in my career and look at applying for an assistant manager role.
How have your colleagues or mentors supported you during your journey?
If there was a time when I needed support, they were only an email, phone call, or a question away. I have had a couple of tutors during my time with COPA, and again, they have been amazing with helping me out when I needed it.
Can you share a proud moment or achievement from your apprenticeship?
Gaining more confidence when dealing with members. I noticed one member, the other day, trying to get an espresso from the coffee machine by moving his cup away every now and again, as the machine was trying to make it. When I asked him what he was doing, he replied that there wasn’t an option for just an espresso. I then took it upon myself, contacted the company we had the vending machine from and asked them if they could add the option. They did so, and now the member doesn’t have to try and judge when the machine makes his coffee, giving him a better experience when visiting.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering an apprenticeship?
Don’t hesitate, jump straight in. It’s a great way to expand your knowledge and potentially gain qualifications that are going to help you progress later on if you missed the opportunity to do so in the past.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give a special mention that have helped you during your apprenticeship?
I would like to give a big shout-out to Helen McCann. Since starting my apprenticeship, Helen has always been there to help me out when needed. If I have had any issues with the work, she is only an email away and responds promptly, ensuring that I understand the issue before we finish our chat.
If you’re interested in progressing your career in the active leisure industry, explore our range of courses.
