After 26 years with Elysium Healthcare, Craig’s incredible career journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the power of lifelong learning. Craig has risen through the ranks to become a senior leader in the healthcare sector supported along the way by apprenticeships with Educ8 Training.
A career that started in the kitchen
Craig began his journey at Elysium Healthcare 26 years ago in a catering role, working as a pot washer. His childhood dream was to become a chef, and with determination and a strong work ethic, he achieved that goal by completing an apprenticeship and progressing into a chef position.
But Craig didn’t stop there.
“Given the healthcare setting I was in, I moved into a care role and completed every diploma available to me in the nursing pathway,” Craig said. “That dedication helped me progress further, eventually stepping into an interim Support Services Manager role.”
Developing leadership skills with Educ8 Training
As interim Support Services Manager, Craig was responsible for a team of 30 non-clinical staff. His role includes managing rotas, budgets, external contractors, performance KPIs, financial reporting, and more, even stepping in for the Hospital Director when needed.
To support his development and formalise his leadership skills, Craig enrolled in ILM Level 4 and later Level 5 in Management with Educ8 Training.
“I love to learn,” Craig said. “Being able to earn and learn was important to me. I’ve always wanted to be someone who makes a difference and this apprenticeship gave me that platform.”
Applying skills in real time
One of the biggest benefits of the apprenticeship for Craig was the ability to apply learning straight away.
“I was in the interim position when I started, and the modules helped me put theory into practice immediately,” he said. “It gave me the confidence and tools to take the next step and I got the full-time role.”
Support that makes a difference
Throughout his journey, Craig was supported by his trainer coach, Phil Morgan.
“Phil has been brilliant, always friendly, always there when I needed help. He went the extra mile when I didn’t quite understand something and was so flexible around my other commitments,” Craig said.
“Educ8 Training has been 100% supportive throughout. I never once felt alone.”
Why Craig recommends Educ8 Training
Craig now proudly holds a leadership position and continues to support the growth of his team and the wider business. For anyone considering an apprenticeship with Educ8 Training, his message is clear:
“It’s flexible, it’s funded, and it helps you achieve things you might not have thought possible. Educ8 Training is an absolutely fantastic platform for further education. It’s been an amazing journey. Thanks, Educ8!”
🔗 Learn more about our Management and Leadership apprenticeships:
https://www.educ8training.co.uk/apprenticeships/
