Kirby is currently completing her Level 5 Operations/Departmental Manager apprenticeship. Kirby works for Carnival UK as a Team Leader, Training Compliance.
Carnival UK, part of the Carnival Corporation, is the biggest travel and leisure company in the world. Creating unforgettable happiness for our guests by providing extraordinary cruise holidays, while honouring the integrity of every ocean they sail.
We met with Kirby to find out her thoughts and opinions on her apprenticeship so far:
What led you to start your apprenticeship?
Through exploring development opportunities and hoping to progress into a management role, our Learning and Development team recommended I look into an apprenticeship. I didn’t go to college or university so felt this would be a great time to look at further education and get the right tools and techniques enabling me to enhance my knowledge and career.
What would a typical day for you be?
I am responsible for ensuring all fleet crew members are suitably qualified and experienced for their roles in accordance with Training Matrices, Corporate and Maritime Flag State requirements. I am also responsible for the development and growth of a small team of Senior Advisors and work with them daily on planning and prioritisation of the team activities together with the identification and implementation of improvements/change.
Tell us about your experience as an apprentice…
My experience to date has been great! I have been provided with a number of supporting tools & techniques which have aided me in my role on numerous occasions. My coach at PETA has consistently supported me throughout my journey as well as my peers who are also on the apprenticeship.
Since embarking on my apprenticeship, I have been promoted into a management position, had the opportunity to work with a number of diverse stakeholders and use my skills learnt to deliver development sessions. I also won Level 5 Management Apprentice of the Year via PETA’s A-Z awards which was amazing and shared internally within my business.
What do you enjoy most about doing an apprenticeship?
Being able to put all that I am learning into practice. On the job learning works best for me in that it is relevant and I can tweak it to suit my day job.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
I would love to progress within Carnival UK as well as support others with further education and training. I am considering a Masters but might need a years break after completing my level 5!
What is the best bit of advice you could give to someone who is considering an apprenticeship?
Do it! I have learnt so much over the 2 years not only about management, but also about myself and the type of leader I aspire to be. The apprenticeship gives you the confidence to develop your skills and abilities which in turn positively impact your organisation & teams.