Apprentice success stories – Mariamam Rodrigues

Mariamam, who works as a Signature Operations Support Team Manager at Mitie, enrolled in the apprenticeship programme to expand her existing responsibilities and improve her HR knowledge.

Read on to find out more about how the apprenticeship helped her take the next step in her career.

Q) What led you to start your chosen apprenticeship?

I was already supporting my Operations Manager with HR-related tasks, and I felt that gaining a formal qualification in HR would strengthen my abilities in my current role and open the door to future progression.

Q) What does a typical day look like for you?

A typical day for me includes supporting the operations and account managers with HR enquiries, handling recruitment, reviewing shift patterns, managing employee records, and contributing to people-related strategies.

I also work closely with Employee Relations and regularly use HR systems like PeopleHub and eArcu to monitor performance and recruitment progress.

Q) How would you describe the apprenticeship journey to anyone thinking of starting?

It’s challenging but extremely rewarding. You can immediately apply what you’ve learnt at work and see the benefits. It’s an excellent way to advance professionally with ongoing support.

Q) Do you have an example of when you have applied your obtained knowledge?

I applied my knowledge of employment law and HR policies during my final project, which involved leading a review of Terms and Conditions.

As part of the process, I ensured that the changes were fully compliant with the Working Time Regulations and the Equality Act while also supporting broader operational improvements.

Q) Do you have an example of when you have applied your obtained skills?

I used my analytical and communication skills to successfully deliver my final project.

I collected and interpreted HR data, created a detailed business case, facilitated employee consultations, and clearly communicated proposed changes to all stakeholders.

Q) Do you have an example of when you have applied your obtained behaviours?

Throughout the project, I demonstrated integrity and professionalism when conducting sensitive consultations with employees.

I remained dedicated to ethical practice, inclusivity, and transparency in all aspects of my work.

Q) What advice would you give to someone starting an apprenticeship?

Stay organised, lean on your trainer for guidance, and take advantage of every opportunity to apply your learning.

Take the initiative to support your managers whenever possible; this is the best way to learn and gain insight into business operations.

When I started, I didn’t have half of the skills I have today, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you have doubts.

Q) How did your manager and trainer support you whilst on the programme?

My trainer was brilliant. She provided regular feedback, helpful resources, and one-on-one guidance whenever I needed it.

My manager involved me in real-world HR cases, which gave me invaluable hands-on experience that supported my development.

Q) Tell us about your final project for your end-point assessment.

I led a project to transition a client’s reception team from 37.5 to 40-hour contracts.

I managed consultations, collaborated with Employee Relations, analysed internal data, and developed a business case to achieve the desired outcome.

The changes improved service delivery, reduced overtime, and enhanced employee well-being.

Q) What was the highlight of your apprenticeship?

The highlight was delivering my final project successfully and receiving a distinction.

My experience with the programme was positive, and I always felt supported by my trainer.

She provided a wealth of useful materials that I used throughout both the apprenticeship and my day-to-day role.

The regular feedback I received kept me on track and motivated me to achieve the grade.

Q) Do you feel the apprenticeship has helped your future aspirations?

Definitely. It has given me the confidence and knowledge to handle a variety of HR issues.

I plan to continue working in management and expand my HR knowledge by studying towards a Level 5 CIPD qualification. This will help me continue my professional development in the HR field.

Q) Do you feel the apprenticeship has helped your future aspirations?

The confidence I’ve gained in delivering practical, impactful HR solutions.

Being trusted to lead a project to revise our team’s Terms and Conditions and then seeing the measurable improvements in employee morale and service quality, demonstrated how far I’d come.

It was incredibly rewarding to apply everything I’d learned into practice and see the tangible benefits it provided to both the business and our employees.

Mariamam’s dedicated trainer, Angela McGlade, said:

“Mariamam was a pleasure to support. Her commitment throughout this programme was outstanding, and her final project demonstrated a strong understanding of HR principles and best practice. Achieving a Distinction is a true reflection of her ability and dedication.”

Mariamam’s success demonstrates how effective an apprenticeship can be in building confidence, gaining practical experience, and preparing for long-term career advancement.

We are proud to have supported Mariamam on her journey and look forward to seeing what she accomplishes next.

Ready to take the next step in your career?

Explore our apprenticeships and training programmes today, or contact our team to find out more.