At Aspire, we believe our people are our greatest strength. Behind every learner’s success is a passionate team working hard to ensure our training is impactful, relevant and life-changing. This week, we’re shining a spotlight on Cheryl, our Head of Apprenticeships – whose journey into education has been shaped by years of experience in care, curriculum development and leadership.
With a background that spans healthcare, family support, and Further Education, Cheryl brings a unique depth of understanding to Aspire’s approach. From delivering post-natal support groups in her early NHS days to leading us through a successful Ofsted inspection, Cheryl’s career has been defined by purpose, quality, and people-first thinking.
Here’s a closer look at her journey.
What is your background?
My career started in paediatrics and child development, and I’ve always worked closely with people through different stages of life. While raising my own family, I worked in a nursing home, which gave me a perspective on care and support. I went on to join the NHS Health Visiting Team, supporting families and delivering post-natal groups and baby massage.
Later, I moved into Children’s Services as a Family Support Outreach Worker and also took on the role of Interim Children’s Centre Manager. In 2012, I made the move into Further Education at Fareham College, and that’s where my career in education really began.
How did you fall into safeguarding and the role you’re in now?
It started with a passion for helping people grow. I completed my A1 Assessor qualification and began delivering qualifications to learners – who thankfully started passing and progressing! I soon gained Direct Claims Status (DCS) for the qualifications I taught through City & Guilds, and later completed my IQA and Lead IQA qualifications.
Since then, I’ve held roles as Curriculum Lead, Head of Learning & Development, Quality Manager, and now Head of Apprenticeships. Each step brought more responsibility, but the goal remained the same – helping people succeed.
Safeguarding has always been a key part of my career. I’ve been the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) since 2012, leading on policies and procedures to ensure both learners and the team are protected. I also take the lead on Prevent and make sure British Values are embedded throughout the organisation. I complete annual training to keep my knowledge current and ensure our approach remains effective. With safeguarding now a standalone focus for Ofsted, I bring real passion and commitment to making sure it’s always a priority.
What does your role involve?
As Head of Apprenticeships, I oversee the design and delivery of all apprenticeship programmes across Aspire. I lead a brilliant team, ensure that our curriculum is relevant and career-focused, and maintain the highest standards of quality.
Some of my responsibilities include:
- Curriculum development and quality assurance
- Internal audits and external inspections
- Staff training, CPD, and compliance
- Policy and procedure development
- Stakeholder relationships with learners, employers, and awarding bodies
- Managing our Quality Management System (QMS) and the Quality Improvement Plan (QIP) in line with Ofsted’s Education Inspection Framework (EIF)
- Ensuring our provision offers clear career pathways with recognised qualifications
What does a typical day look like for you?
Every day is different – and that’s what I love about it! I could be observing a lesson, updating policy documents, leading a curriculum meeting, checking in with employers, preparing for an audit, or delivering training. I also spend a lot of time supporting staff with their development and ensuring we’re all aligned on Aspire’s mission and values.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
There’s so much I enjoy, but if I had to choose:
- Working with likeminded, passionate people
- Striving for excellence in everything we do
- Being part of a quality-driven team
- The variety and adaptability of the role – there’s always something new to learn
- Innovation – finding better ways to do things and improve outcomes
Cheryl’s story is one of growth, resilience, and relentless care for others – qualities that perfectly reflect Aspire’s values. Since joining us in 2024, she’s made a huge impact, from launching our internal learning systems to leading us through our Ofsted GOOD result just 22 weeks into the job.
Now, as Head of Apprenticeships, Cheryl continues to shape Aspire’s future – ensuring every learner has a clear path, strong support and high-quality provision behind them. We’re proud to have her at Aspire.
Ready to take the next step in your career or grow your team with skilled apprentices?
Get in touch with our team today and discover how Aspire’s apprenticeship programmes can make a difference.