Apprenticeship lessons key for award-winning Kira
An award-winning Learning and Development specialist paid tribute to her ‘transformative’ apprenticeship journey with her career progressing at pace.
Kira Squire, from Wolverhampton, enrolled on the Level 5 Learning and Development Consultant / Business Partner Apprenticeship with leading training provider Realise as the next step in her professional development.
She has since landed a new role at a global tech company with more than 800 employees – and won the Unsung Hero accolade at the CRN Women and Diversity in Channel Awards 2025.
Speaking during National Apprenticeship Week, Kira, 28, said: “I chose this apprenticeship as a strategic step in my career development. I had been in L&D for six years and I wanted to deepen my expertise in the industry - and this programme offered a structured yet flexible way to build the skills I needed to progress.
“It provided a perfect blend of theory and practical application, allowing me to implement what I was learning straight away.
“Professionally, the apprenticeship was transformative. It strengthened my strategic thinking and gave me the confidence and credibility to contribute more effectively to my organisation’s learning culture.”
Kira changed roles midway through the apprenticeship to become Senior Learning and Development Specialist at LastPass, a USA-headquartered, cloud-based password manager tech business.
Despite the change in circumstances, Realise ensured she was able to carry on her studies seamlessly.
Kira said: “I received fantastic support from my tutor. Changing jobs midway through the apprenticeship, particularly to a Boston-based company, could’ve been problematic, but it was such a smooth transition.
“She was there if I had any questions, whether clarifying complex topics or helping me stay on track with deadlines.
“What stands out most is her collaborative approach. She worked closely with me to ensure every project meets the full apprenticeship criteria, while still allowing me to bring my own ideas and creativity into the process.
“Her encouragement has given me confidence and her expertise helps me turn challenges into opportunities for growth. I have genuinely felt supported every step of the way.”
With plans to keep pushing forward with her career, Kira urged others to consider the apprenticeship route as a viable option.
“An apprenticeship isn’t just about gaining a qualification - it’s about discovering what you’re capable of,” she said. “There will be challenges, but those are the moments that shape you. Be curious, be brave, and give yourself grace along the way.”
Realise’s dedicated Business Skills unit is holding an informal, no-commitment, online discovery session to allow business leaders and individuals to find out everything they need to know about apprenticeships.
The session will take place on Wednesday February 11, 2pm-2.30pm
Guests will learn how business skills apprenticeships are funded, how enrolment works and how training is delivered. There will also be a chance to ask questions.
To book a place on the session, visit: realisetraining.com/business-skills-drop-in
