Tia’s Story

Learner name: Tia Willis

Employer: Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust

Job title: Business Support Manager

Course: ILM Level 5 Award in Leadership and Management

Tia Willis, a Business Manager at Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, embarked on the ILM Level 5 Award in Leadership and Management offered by Truro and Penwith College’s Future Skills Institute with the aim to enhance her leadership capabilities and professional development. Tia did not anticipate the profound personal and professional impact the course would have on her. The training has significantly boosted Tia’s confidence and competence, positioning her for further career advancement.

One of the standout aspects of the course for Tia was the opportunity to meet and interact with colleagues from across the Trust who were also developing their leadership and management skills. Engaging in debates and discussions with other leaders introduced Tia to new skills and approaches that she regularly applies in her role.

This exchange of ideas and feedback was invaluable, contributing significantly to her growth as a leader. She commented, “Sharing experiences and learning from peers’ journeys enriched my understanding of leadership.”

The structured platform provided by the course allowed Tia to effectively articulate her leadership experiences and strategies. Before the course, she felt somewhat uncertain about her leadership approach and experience. Reflecting on her journey through the assignment process was a significant benefit, allowing her to appreciate her progress and identify areas for improvement. Tia particularly enjoyed the assignment writing process, which she found to be both enjoyable and beneficial. This introspection helped her consolidate her learning and recognise her growth.

The support Tia received from the college and her managers played a crucial role in her successful completion of the course. Her tutor, Richie, played an instrumental role, providing guidance and insightful leadership advice during sessions and via email. Tia shared, “I am extremely grateful that I was able to submit drafts of my assignments to Richie along the way which gave me assurance that I was along the right lines with what I had written. He was incredibly supportive!”

Tia’s line managers were equally supportive, ensuring her study days were protected. One of her managers, having completed the course herself, reviewed Tia’s assignment before submission, providing additional insights and encouragement. This support network was pivotal in Tia’s successful completion of the course.

With her increased confidence and skill set, Tia is now able to lead projects and changes within her team more effectively. This newfound autonomy has streamlined several meetings and processes, reducing the need for validation from her line manager. Tia’s enhanced leadership has freed up her manager’s time and increased her influence on team activities, leading to tangible improvements within her workplace.

Looking ahead, Tia plans to further her education and career. She is in the process of applying for a Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship with Plymouth University, aiming to pursue a Project Management role. She hopes that further education will enhance her skills and knowledge, allowing her to transition into a more advanced role. Tia aspires to leverage the advanced skills and knowledge she aims to acquire through continued education to further her career.

Tia highly recommends the ILM Level 5 course at Truro and Penwith College for several reasons. She noted, “The course structure is flexible and supportive, which was crucial for my busy schedule. The college creates a valued learning environment, encouraging professional development and networking among like-minded people.”

The ILM Level 5 Award in Leadership and Management offers a unique opportunity to step away from the workplace, allowing students to focus on their professional growth in a dedicated setting. Tia’s experience with the course has been profoundly positive, equipping her with the confidence, skills, and support needed to advance her career and contribute more effectively to her team.

Find out more about the ILM Leadership and Management courses here. Explore our course offerings or contact our dedicated team at 01872 308000 to discuss the best option for you.