Alumni Spotlight: Bethany Milburn
Alumni Spotlight: Bethany Milburn
Bethany Milburn saw her apprenticeship as a way to accelerate her development and gain credibility in project management.
“I was motivated to start my apprenticeship because it was offered as part of my graduate scheme. It felt like a valuable opportunity to strengthen my project management knowledge alongside my day-to-day role. Having the chance to complete a Level 4 qualification with LSP gave me both a structured framework and practical tools that directly complemented the projects I was already working on. I saw it as a way to accelerate my development, gain a formal qualification, and ensure I had a strong foundation for a future career in project management.”
Building Key Skills
During her apprenticeship, Bethany developed both technical knowledge and essential soft skills.
“During the apprenticeship, I gained a solid understanding of project management fundamentals such as stakeholder engagement, risk management, planning, and governance. I also built strong skills in communication and problem solving, which are essential when coordinating teams and managing tasks under pressure.
One of the most valuable things was learning how to balance theory with practical application - for example, using structured approaches while adapting to real-world challenges. These skills have not only helped me in my current role but also improved my confidence in taking ownership of complex pieces of work.”
Shaping Her Career Path
The apprenticeship gave Bethany credibility and opened doors to new opportunities within her organisation.
“The apprenticeship has given me a professional edge by providing both recognised qualifications and hands-on experience. Having a Level 4 in project management signals credibility and has strengthened my career pathway, opening up more opportunities for responsibility and leadership in projects.
It also helped me build networks across the business as I worked on applying new methods and frameworks. More broadly, it has given me the tools to navigate challenges effectively, which has made me more prepared for progression into higher-level project management roles in the future.”
Achievements and Milestones
Bethany is proud of balancing the demands of her role with her apprenticeship studies.
“One of my biggest achievements was balancing the demands of a graduate role while successfully completing the apprenticeship, showing I could manage multiple priorities and still deliver quality work. Completing key assignments and seeing my knowledge applied in real projects felt like milestones in themselves.
Another achievement was developing the confidence to contribute to project discussions with senior colleagues, using the terminology and frameworks I had learned. Finishing the apprenticeship and being awarded the Level 4 qualification was a significant milestone that gave me a real sense of accomplishment and professional growth.”
Recognition and Feedback
Bethany’s initiative and commitment were recognised throughout her journey.
“I have been recognised within my role for demonstrating initiative and commitment, particularly when applying my apprenticeship learning to support projects. For example, I’ve had feedback highlighting my proactive approach and willingness to take responsibility beyond what was expected of me at graduate level. Completing the apprenticeship alongside a demanding role was also acknowledged as a positive achievement. This recognition has been motivating and reinforced the value of going the extra mile, especially when learning and development opportunities are involved.”
A Moment of Pride
One success stands out as a turning point in Bethany’s career.
“One of my proudest successes was completing my Level 4 Project Management qualification while managing several projects. Balancing study alongside real project delivery pushed me to develop strong organisational and leadership skills.
My apprenticeship not only gave me confidence but also contributed to me being promoted to Associate Project Manager, which felt like a huge milestone. Applying what I learned directly to my projects and then being recognised with a promotion confirmed that all the effort I put in had made a real difference to both my career and the organisation.”
Bethany’s Advice
Bethany encourages others to seize the opportunity of an apprenticeship with LSP:
“I would advise anyone considering an apprenticeship with LSP to go for it, as it is an excellent opportunity to gain both formal knowledge and practical skills that can immediately be applied in the workplace. It is important to be organised and committed, as balancing work and study can be challenging, but the benefits are long-lasting.
The training and support provided by LSP are very effective, and the structure of the programme means you see your progress clearly. Overall, it is a great way to build your professional credibility while accelerating your development.”
Bethany’s story shows how an apprenticeship can accelerate professional growth, build confidence, and open doors to career progression in project management.