Skip to main content

Case Study

Pamela Dunseath: How An Apprenticeship Has Supercharged My Career

Pamela Dunseath News Story

"Whether you’re at the start of your career or, like me, looking to upskill or change direction, an apprenticeship at Belfast Met is a brilliant opportunity!"

Currently in her second year studying a Higher-Level Apprenticeship in Business Data Management, Pamela Dunseath's career has skyrocketed since beginning her Apprenticeship journey.

Having worked in finance roles for over 18 years in Belfast Harbour, Pamela has transitioned into the company's Digital Transformation Team, now holding the position of Digital Transformation Project Lead, a move which Pamela links to the knowledge and skills gained through her apprenticeship.

Read more about Pamela's apprenticeship journey below.

What made you want to study an apprenticeship?
"As an older student in my 40s, I’ve had a unique career journey. I left school after my A-Levels and went straight into the workforce. Over the last 8-10 years, I’ve found that not having a degree has been a barrier to progression in my career, which has been incredibly frustrating.

"However, as a mum of two, leaving my job to study full-time simply wasn’t an option. The Higher-Level Apprenticeship has been the perfect solution – it allows me to attend college one day a week while continuing to work, with the full support of my employer."

How did Belfast Met help on your apprenticeship journey?
"Belfast Met has been an incredible support throughout my apprenticeship. The staff are simply fantastic, and the level of support they offer is second to none. No matter what the issue or question might be, the tutors are always on hand to guide and encourage.

"As someone who had been out of education for many years, I’ve found their support and encouragement invaluable. It has really helped me regain my confidence in a learning environment."

What was one of your biggest achievements at Belfast Met?
"Without a doubt, my biggest achievement has been winning the Business Data Management Apprentice of the Year Award. It was such an honour to be recognised for my hard work.

My Employer...
"I’ve worked at Belfast Harbour for 18 years, primarily in various finance roles. In 2021, I was lucky enough to be seconded to a project team, which opened up opportunities I hadn’t expected.

"Since starting my apprenticeship, I’ve transitioned to the Digital Transformation Team and now hold the role of Digital Transformation Project Lead. This has been a fantastic career development for me and is directly linked to the knowledge and skills I’ve gained through my apprenticeship."

How has your employer helped you on your apprenticeship journey.
"Belfast Harbour has been incredibly supportive throughout my apprenticeship. They’ve given me day release to attend college one day a week, which has been essential in helping me balance my studies with work.

"My manager has regular check-ins with me and is always looking for ways to develop my skills further. The company is deeply invested in employee growth and offers a range of development opportunities. I’ve been fortunate to complete several additional courses, including a coaching and mentoring qualification, a front-line manager course, and an assertiveness course, which have all complemented my apprenticeship and strengthened my professional abilities.

"When I won the Business Data Management Apprentice of the Year Award, the achievement was celebrated at our town hall event and shared on our social media channels, which was such a proud and motivating moment for me.

"They’ve also encouraged me to take on new challenges and apply what I’ve learned in practical settings. For example, transitioning to the Digital Transformation Team was a fantastic opportunity to align my work with my studies, allowing me to gain hands-on experience while growing in my role.

"The level of support, encouragement, and recognition I’ve received from my employer has been truly invaluable."

What do you believe are the advantages to undertaking an apprenticeship?
"An apprenticeship offers the perfect balance of learning and practical experience. You’re able to develop new skills, gain recognised qualifications, and apply what you’re learning directly to your job.

"For someone like me, it has been a game-changer – allowing me to study without taking a career break and providing a clear pathway for career progression. It’s a win-win for both the apprentice and the employer."

What advice would you give to people considering an apprenticeship at Belfast Met?
"Go for it! Whether you’re at the start of your career or, like me, looking to upskill or change direction, an apprenticeship at Belfast Met is a brilliant opportunity.

"Don't be afraid to take the leap - the staff at Belfast Met are so supportive and the structure of the apprenticeship makes it manageable, even alongside work and personal commitments. It's an investment in yourself that will pay off in so many ways."

Are you interested in the Apprenticeship pathway? At Belfast Met, we offer a range of apprenticeships and traineeships across a number of subject areas.

To find out more about our Apprenticeships and Traineeships, click HERE.


< view all case studies