Douglas Monaghan

For Douglas Monaghan, the decision to take on an apprenticeship came as part of a wider organisational initiative.

Taking on the apprenticeship challenge

The apprenticeship was an opportunity to strengthen Douglas's skills and gain a qualification that might otherwise have been out of reach.

“I thought the apprenticeship would benefit my progression within the organisation and help improve some of my skills. It opened a door that I may not have walked through otherwise.”

Balancing the demands of study alongside his day-to-day responsibilities required resilience and good time management. Douglas found creative ways to juggle coursework with his operational duties, ensuring that both areas continued to progress.

“It was about learning to manage my priorities effectively.”

Building skills and confidence

The apprenticeship helped Douglas develop knowledge of management techniques and new approaches to leadership. While applying these in practice sometimes required adaptation, the process gave him valuable insights into his own style and how to refine it further.

“Opening a door on other job opportunities is what I most value about completing an apprenticeship. It has given me another layer of skills to draw on and the confidence to explore new paths.”

Douglas also recognises the importance of connecting study with practical experience and encourages organisations to think carefully about how apprentices can apply their learning in real-world settings.

 “When an apprenticeship begins, it works best when the employer has a clear plan to help bring the learning to life.”

Shaping Derby’s green spaces

Douglas’s role at Derby City Council as an Arboricultural Officer is  varied and dynamic. He oversees the city’s tree stock, ensuring it is managed safely and effectively on behalf of various council departments. His day-to-day responsibilities include setting out work for crews, attending site visits, and providing technical advice to colleagues, councillors, and members of the public.

“My role is incredibly varied; a typical day could see me planning work, attending meetings or responding to queries. Every day brings something different.”

Advice for future apprentices

Douglas recommends apprenticeships with the University of Derby, with the suggestion that learners and employers work closely to make the most of the on-the-job learning.

“It’s a great way to build skills and confidence, especially when you can link the theory directly to your role.”

Looking ahead

Since completing his apprenticeship, Douglas has actively explored career development opportunities within the council and beyond. The skills and knowledge he has gained continue to shape his ambitions and broaden the possibilities available to him.

For Douglas, the apprenticeship journey has been both a challenge and a learning curve, equipping him with tools he can carry forward into the next stage of his career.