When Rebecca Fisher stepped into her role as a Facilities Supervisor at GHC Trust, she was facing a steep learning curve. Newly promoted, she was suddenly responsible for coordinating teams, managing appraisals, overseeing compliance, and maintaining high operational standard, despite having limited prior experience in these areas.
Recognising the need to build both confidence and capability, Rebecca enrolled on the Level 3 Leadership and Management apprenticeship with Instep UK. What followed was a transformative journey, not only for her own development, but for her team and wider organisation.
Building Confidence, Skills and Self-Belief
At the start of the programme, Rebecca identified several challenges. Alongside developing her leadership skills, she wanted to strengthen her communication, IT capability, and confidence in delegating tasks. As someone with dyslexia, she had previously struggled in traditional learning environments, which made returning to structured learning feel daunting.
However, the apprenticeship’s tailored approach made a significant difference.
With support from her tutor, learning was adapted into clear, accessible language and grounded in real-life scenarios relevant to her day-to-day responsibilities. This enabled Rebecca to immediately apply what she was learning within her role, helping knowledge to stick and translate into impact.
“I wanted to understand not just what to do, but why and how, so I could lead my team effectively and get the best out of myself and others.”
Turning Learning into Action
One of the most powerful aspects of Rebecca’s apprenticeship was its direct application to the workplace.
A standout example is the ‘Flick the Switch’ project, which Rebecca designed and led across the hospital. The initiative encouraged staff to switch off lights and computers at the end of each day, combining behavioural change with practical cost-saving measures.
Drawing on skills developed throughout the programme (including communication, persuasion, project management, and data collection) Rebecca successfully delivered the initiative at scale.
The impact has been significant:
- Estimated savings of £4,000 per month, freeing up budget for other NHS priorities
- Strong cross-team collaboration and engagement
- Increased awareness of efficiency and sustainability across departments
Delivering Measurable Business Impact
Beyond this flagship project, Rebecca has embedded her new skills into everyday operations.
She has:
- Introduced structured cleaning checklists to improve efficiency and reduce reliance on bank staff
- Implemented safer working practices by addressing compliance risks (including eliminating unsafe equipment charging procedures)
- Strengthened team communication and reduced conflict through more effective leadership
These changes have not only improved operational performance but also contributed to cost savings, improved compliance, and a safer working environment.
A Stronger Leader, A Stronger Team
Today, Rebecca leads with confidence and clarity. She manages responsibilities independently, communicates effectively, and delegates with assurance, creating a more empowered and cohesive team.
Her growth has been recognised internally, with her manager praising both her development and the tangible outcomes achieved during the programme.
Just as importantly, Rebecca has become an advocate for inclusive leadership, actively promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion within her team and challenging bias where it arises.
A Personal Achievement to Be Proud Of
For Rebecca, completing the apprenticeship represents more than professional development; it’s a deeply personal milestone.
“I am most proud of being able to complete this program, even with dyslexia and being a kinesthetic learner, I was never very good in classrooms. So completing this is a massive achievement for me.
I’m so proud of achieving a distinction in this program. I never thought I could achieve that with dyslexia.”
Despite the barriers she had previously faced in education, Rebecca not only completed the programme, she did so with a Distinction, demonstrating the power of the right support, structure, and mindset.
In Her Words
When asked what she would say to others considering the apprenticeship route, Rebecca’s advice is simple:
“Just do it, and believe in yourself.”
