Interview with Kelly Clegg, learner at Harlow College

We recently had the opportunity to catch up with Kelly Clegg, who studied our CMI level 5 course at Harlow College. Kelly talked us through why she decided to study a qualification, how she found blended learning, and the impact that the qualification has had on her career.

Can you give us a little background into what your journey has looked like up until now?

I am currently an Assistant Operations Manager in the Housing Operations department at Harlow Council, where I manage a team of six people.

I started with Harlow Council as a data inputter about 10 years ago. From there, I moved on to being a trainee Compliance Officer and then a Compliance Officer. During the pandemic, I was asked to step up as interim team leader.  At the time, the team was small with only three people in, however it’s grown considerably over the last 3-4 years.

I now manage a team of six and our remit has expanded. We now don’t just deal with compliance, but also asset management. I chose to study for the CMI Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership so I could gain a better understanding of what was required of me as a middle manager, to show that I’ve got the qualifications I need to be a manager, and to make sure that I was doing the best job that I could do.

 

Why do you think the Online and On Campus approach was helpful?

It was not only helpful but probably necessary as I manage a busy team with lots to do. Without the flexibility of the course I wouldn’t have had the time to dedicate to studying. Only needing to attend college a few times a month, then spending time on self-guided learning online as and when it was convenient for me to, was the only way I could have achieved this qualification.

 

What did you think about the video content and the quality of the online learning?

Actually, as part of the course, we examined learning styles and I found out that my preferred learning style is visual. I really liked the graphics from the videos as they helped me picture and understand the concepts that were being discussed.

The VLE (Virtual Learning Environment) itself is really easy to navigate and intuitive, and it’s helpful that it breaks down learning into little sections. During your lunch break I would sometimes have the time to watch two or three short videos – and not have to commit to a longer 20-minute video in one go.

 

What did you like the most about the course?

The thing I got most out of the course was the insight into myself and self-awareness.

It’s about reflection and being honest with yourself about what you can do better as a manager, and I think that the content from the course gave me that.

 

What was the on campus aspect of the course like?

We had a fabulous tutor from Harlow College called Beverley, who was so approachable, friendly, and knowledgeable – she was absolutely brilliant.

There was also the support from my classmates, which was invaluable because we would all sit down and discuss sticking points. It’s nice when you meet people virtually, but it’s not the same as being able to go out for a coffee at lunchtime, talk in real life, read body language, and get to know people properly.

 

Would you recommend an Online and On Campus course to others?

Absolutely. I would recommend blended learning because not only do you get the support that you need from being in the classroom, but you also get the flexibility to do the work and self-guided study when it’s convenient for you.

I’d be reluctant to do any other kind of learning now!

 

How has the course helped in your career?

It’s helped in a number of ways. I’ve now got a recognised qualification to show that I’ve got the skills, knowledge, and behaviours I need to carry out this role.

I think imposter syndrome in women is a very real thing and being able to achieve this level of qualification makes me reevaluate that. It’s given me confidence in my own abilities as a manager.