For many people, choosing the next step in their career comes down to one question: how can I learn skills that genuinely prepare me for the workplace? For Matthew Alabi, the answer was an apprenticeship—one that combined real-world experience with structured development and a recognised qualification.
Matthew completed the Associate Project Management Level 4 apprenticeship while employed at National Grid, building core project management skills that support his day-to-day work and long-term career goals.
Why Matthew Chose a Project Management Apprenticeship
Matthew’s decision to choose an apprenticeship was driven by practical career development. He wanted the opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals and gain exposure to real projects, rather than focusing solely on classroom-based learning.
As Matthew explains, his priority was being in an environment where learning and doing happened at the same time—where the theory connects directly to the working world.
“I wanted to work with industry professionals… I wouldn’t have had the same exposure as training on the job.”
That balance is what makes apprenticeships such a powerful route: they offer a qualification, yes—but they also develop workplace confidence, communication skills, and experience that employers value.
Training Support from Heart of England Training (HOET)
When Matthew talks about his experience with Heart of England Training, one theme is clear: the support felt personal and suited to his learning style. He describes the training as tailored, structured enough to keep progress on track, while still allowing independence.
Matthew also highlighted the value of having educational support available when needed, which helped him get the most out of the programme and stay focused as he developed new knowledge.
“I found the training to be very personalised and catered to my learning style… being more self-directed with educational support where needed.”
Just as importantly, Matthew praised the impact of his educator in helping apprentices link project management learning to real business outcomes. That “bridge” between qualification content and workplace reality is where skills become usable—especially in roles where priorities can shift and stakeholders are often balancing multiple demands.
“My Educator really helped us understand the project methodologies… [and] associate it to our business requirements and our day-to-day role.”
How the Associate Project Management Level 4 Apprenticeship Helped in Role
For Matthew, the apprenticeship delivered more than knowledge—it strengthened his foundation in project management and gave him confidence in the principles behind the work.
He describes the programme as highly beneficial, helping him understand the fundamentals that underpin project delivery and professional practice. That grounding is essential in project environments where being organised, communicating clearly, and understanding methodology can make a real difference.
“Yeah, absolutely! It really helped me understand the foundations…”
Matthew’s development hasn’t stopped with the apprenticeship either. He’s already looking ahead to further training to build on what he’s learned, including industry-specific qualifications such as NEBOSH and then the PMQ—showing how apprenticeships can act as a springboard for continuous professional growth.
Matthew’s Advice for Future Apprentices
When asked what he would say to someone considering an apprenticeship, Matthew’s advice is simple and forward-looking: choose something you can see yourself doing in the future, push yourself, and keep widening your horizons.
“Do something that you envision doing in the future, broaden your… and pursue a role that you think will push you to be the best.”
It’s advice that applies whether you’re just starting out or thinking about retraining—because the best development routes are the ones that challenge you while giving you the tools to succeed.
Would Matthew Recommend an Apprenticeship with HOET?
Matthew’s answer is a confident yes.
“Yeah, most definitely!”
That recommendation reflects the experience HOET aims to provide: supportive learning, relevant content, and development that fits around real roles—so apprentices can progress without stepping away from their careers.
Enquire About Apprenticeships with HOET
If you’re an employer looking to develop talent, or someone considering a career path in project management, apprenticeships can offer a practical route to recognised skills and real workplace experience.
To find out more about apprenticeship training through Heart of England Training (HOET), enquire now by emailing hello@hoet.co.uk.
