National Apprenticeships Week
For colleagues already leading from the front, the Pathway to Progress Level 3 Team Leader / Supervisor apprenticeship offers the opportunity to turn experience into recognised capability. For Barima Kontor, Security Team Leader, this programme provided exactly that: structure, confidence, and a clearer path towards senior leadership.
Before starting the course, Barima was working as a Security Team Leader, supervising officers and coordinating daily operations across the site. His role involved managing incidents, briefing teams, liaising with contractors, and ensuring a safe environment for colleagues and visitors. He was often the first point of contact for operational issues and regularly stepped up to cover wider management responsibilities, including reporting, stakeholder communication, and overseeing broader site operations.
Despite already carrying significant responsibility, he recognised there was more to learn.
“I joined the programme because I wanted to strengthen my leadership capability and gain a formal qualification that matched the responsibilities I was already taking on,” he explains. “I wanted to improve my confidence, develop my communication skills, and prepare myself for progression into higher-level management roles.”
While always open to learning, the structured nature of the apprenticeship was a new experience.
“Most of my development had been hands-on and practical,” he says. “The idea of coursework and assessments felt unfamiliar, but I knew it would help formalise the skills I was already using.”
Turning Experience into Professional Practice
The Level 3 programme quickly proved its value. The course deepened their understanding of leadership theory while offering practical tools that could be applied immediately in the workplace.
He describes gaining greater confidence in areas such as delegation, performance management, and adapting leadership styles to different situations.
“It’s helped me understand why certain leadership approaches work better in different circumstances, rather than relying only on experience.”
One of the most noticeable changes he has had has been in his communication style. The course encouraged a more intentional and structured approach, requiring careful consideration of clarity, tone, and the desired outcome of each interaction. Active listening, constructive feedback, and adapting communication to individuals have become core strengths, particularly during challenging conversations.
“It’s also helped me stay calm and focused when dealing with difficult situations.”
Confidence in Challenging Conversations
Where performance issues or difficult discussions once felt daunting, the apprenticeship provided clear frameworks and professional techniques.
“I feel much more confident now. I approach challenges with preparation, empathy, and a clear plan. Instead of avoiding tough conversations, I address them early and guide people towards improvement.”
This confidence has had a positive impact on both personal effectiveness and team relationships.
Discovering Leadership Potential
Through reflection and assessment, the course also helped the colleague better understand their own leadership style.
“I’ve learned that I’m a calm, supportive leader who performs well under pressure. People respond well to clear communication and a steady approach.”
They also recognised strengths beyond day to day operations, identifying potential for more strategic leadership and wider influence within the business.
Completing the portfolio and assessments became an important part of that journey.
“It helped me see how much I actually do and how far I’ve developed. It was challenging at times, but very rewarding.”
Looking Ahead with Confidence
The impact of the qualification is already clear. It has validated his role, strengthened his confidence, and enhanced how they operate as a leader.
“It’s helped me think more strategically and positioned me well for future progression.”
Looking ahead, his goals include continuing to develop as a leader, taking on greater responsibility, and applying their learning consistently, particularly around communication, coaching, and performance management. Longer term, he aims to progress into senior management and contribute more widely to planning, decision-making, and organisational goals.
Take the Next Step
This story is a powerful reminder that leadership development doesn’t start when you get a new job title; it starts when you decide to invest in yourself.
If you are already supporting teams, stepping up when needed, or thinking about where your career could go next, the Pathway to Progress apprenticeship could be your opportunity to turn experience into confidence and ambition into action.
As Barima puts it:
“A leadership apprenticeship gives you practical skills, real confidence, and a deeper understanding of how to work with people effectively. It’s supportive, structured, and designed to build your strengths step by step.”
During National Apprenticeships Week, now is the perfect time to start the conversation. Email apprenticeships@tcfm.co.uk, explore the Pathway to Progress programmes, and take that next step towards your future.