Rosie’s apprenticeship journey: reigniting a passion for learning

Reigniting a passion for learning

Rosie Butler is an HR People Lead at E.ON and describes herself as passionate, determined and curious. She is currently studying the CIPD Level 5 People Professional Apprenticeship, a programme that has helped her make dedicated time for her own development and rediscover her confidence as a learner.

“Before starting the programme, I was unsure how I would adapt to learning again after being away from formal education since university,” Rosie says. “However, it has reignited my passion for learning and shown me that I can successfully develop new skills, strengthen existing ones and retain the knowledge I gain.”

Learning by doing

For Rosie, one of the biggest strengths of the apprenticeship is its practical, skills-based approach. Rather than learning in isolation, she has been able to build knowledge through real workplace tasks and apply new tools, techniques and methodologies directly in her role. “The aspect of the programme I enjoy most is the practical, skills-based learning,” she says. “I particularly enjoy the tasks that are designed to build existing skills or help you develop completely new ones.”

“Rather than sitting in a classroom, I have the opportunity to learn on the job and apply my learning in real workplace situations,” she says. “As a kinaesthetic learner, I learn best by doing, so this programme really suits my learning style and ticks all the boxes for me.”

Building a broader HR toolkit

The programme has helped Rosie develop a broader toolkit she can use to solve problems, improve outcomes and make better-informed decisions. She says it has strengthened her ability to think critically, analyse data and approach challenges in a more structured way. “The programme has helped me develop a much broader toolkit that I can apply in my role,” Rosie says. “I’m now more confident using different techniques, methodologies and systems to solve problems and improve outcomes.”

“It’s not just about having lots of tools available,” Rosie says. “It’s about understanding which tool, approach or methodology is the most effective to use in different situations.”

Growing confidence and career opportunities

That confidence is already supporting Rosie’s career development. “This programme has played a key role in supporting my career development and helping me secure a permanent role within HR,” she says. The apprenticeship has also given her the confidence to challenge the status quo, introduce new ideas and deliver training that supports operational demands.

“The knowledge and skills I’ve gained have enabled me to put learning into practice, particularly when managing stakeholders, solving problems and identifying root causes,” Rosie says. “As a result, I feel more confident influencing others, driving improvements and making a meaningful contribution to the business.”

Looking ahead

Rosie is now focused on continuing to grow in her current role, deepening her HR knowledge and putting her apprenticeship learning into practice every day. “As I’m still relatively new to the role, I want to build my confidence, deepen my HR knowledge, and continue developing the skills I’ve gained through the programme,” she says. Longer term, she would love to progress into a senior management position within HR or become an HR People Partner, supporting the wider business and helping to create positive experiences and outcomes for employees.

For anyone considering an apprenticeship, Rosie’s advice is simple: “Don’t delay—just get started. Taking on a long-term programme can feel daunting, especially if it’s been a while since you last studied, but the benefits far outweigh any initial nerves.” She adds: “Throughout the journey, you’ll have access to coaches, peers and a strong support network who are there to help when you need it, while also giving you the space to grow and develop independently. Your future self will thank you for taking the opportunity.”