We spoke to Augustus Mohan, who is studying a Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship at Kingston College, about how his course has helped him excel in his career as Private Patients Deputy Service Manager at the NHS.
Why did you choose to study the Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship at Kingston College?
The course is very relevant to my field of work. Having nearly 10 years of experience in my field of work without the relevant qualifications made me choose to learn the theories and knowledge of Business and Management to further develop my understanding.
What are the most enjoyable aspects or highlights of your course?
The learning styles and different methods of teaching are excellent, the most enjoyable aspect will have to be learning the degree along with classmates who have reached very senior leadership positions from different sectors, but we all have the same goals and career paths to relate to.
Can you provide examples of any particular achievements or how you have overcome any difficult situations?
I didn't think I would be able to manage starting this degree whilst working full time and being a parent to a 2yr old at the time, but the delivery of the CMDA and protected study leave from my NHS Trust enabled me to progress with my degree with ease. The first year taught me all about self-reflection and critical thinking, which also helped with work and personal life to enable me to put theories into practice in both places.
How have your studies helped you in your current role?
Having nearly 10 years experience in my field of work, I learnt everything I know from managers/mentors and colleagues. But having started and now halfway through the degree, I now possess the perspective to know what theories/models/processes are used in my organisation and I feel my wealth of knowledge now has been cemented from this education.
What are your hopes, goals and plans for the future?
My hopes are to complete this CMDA and obtain my degree and Chartered Manager status. My plan is to use the qualification to push myself into very senior manager roles within my organisation/department so I can put my learning and management style to good use. My main goal is to show others within the NHS in the same position as me who had started from a lower level and climbed the career ladder that with education in addition to your experience, you can reach for the stars.
Do you have any advice for other potential students looking to enrol?
If you think your current experience will help you reach the top of the NHS ladder, think again! Without education or specifically this CMDA you can only go so high before you come across others who have that qualification that makes them stand out to employers. This CMDA enables both work and education to take place whilst allowing you to further develop yourself without affecting your salary and the added benefit of Chartered status to help you stand out from the rest.
You can apply to study our Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship here
