Katie Agutter, Unit Manager at Elmbrook Court Care Home, part of Oakland Care, shares how on-the-job training helped her grow into leadership — without stepping away from the frontline.
My journey at Oakland Care began in November 2022 as a Care Team Leader, and within less than a year I was promoted to Interim Unit Manager. While I was delighted to receive this recognition, I had also applied and been offered a place to study Adult Nursing at university. At the time, I believed this was the next—and most appropriate—step for my professional development in the care sector. However, I soon discovered a more practical and equally rewarding path offered by my employer, one that aligned more closely with my day-to-day experience and aspirations.
The Assistant Practitioner Programme, part of Oakland Care’s accredited learning courses, was highly recommended by colleagues and led by Carrie Stone, a respected Clinical Training Partner employed internally. The programme had a strong reputation for combining academic learning with hands-on practice, which immediately appealed to me. After speaking with my Home Manager and reflecting on my goals, I applied and was accepted.
One of my biggest concerns was how I’d continue working effectively while dedicating time to training. This was why I initially felt university was the best direction—and why many in the sector hesitate to pursue development. The perceived conflict between learning and working can be daunting. However, I learned that while balancing care responsibilities with training expectations can be challenging, with a well-structured programme and strong support, it becomes manageable and fulfilling.
The programme involved one day per week attending in-person training at one of Oakland Care’s homes, alongside two afternoons each week set aside for coursework. This structure, paired with clear deadlines and consistent guidance, helped me stay organised while continuing in my full-time role. Crucially, it allowed me to apply my learning in real time, rather than keeping it separate from practice.
A typical day involved leading my team, managing resident care, and integrating learning into clinical work. With support from our Nursing team, I completed many competencies during shifts. We identified opportunities to link daily tasks with training objectives, making learning seamless and beneficial to the care environment. Rather than disrupting the flow of care, training enriched it. I gained deeper clinical insight, strengthened relationships with nurses, and grew more confident in my leadership. I also became more attuned to residents’ individual needs, which improved the quality of care I delivered.
As a result, I was employed as a permanent Unit Manager—a milestone in my development. My experience reflects that of many others at Oakland Care who are encouraged to grow on the job. Training opportunities are inclusive and accessible for those who wish to progress—something that should be standard across the sector.
Other opportunities include ‘Train the Trainer’ programmes, which allow staff to become qualified internal trainers and promote co-mentorship. Team members can also complete NVQ qualifications and other strands such as medication training, all of which contribute to a more skilled and confident workforce.
Time and resource management are crucial—with training embedded into daily practice, including rota planning, support with exams and coursework, and ensuring staff have what they need to succeed. This is why managerial support and a strong learning culture are so vital.
Today, I’m continuing my professional journey with the support of my manager, working towards a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Social Care. With every training opportunity, I’ve gained new skills, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. My dual role bridges clinical practice with leadership, guiding my team with real-life insight. Training hasn’t just supported my career—it has enhanced the quality of care we provide, empowered others to grow, and fostered a team culture rooted in confidence, competence, and compassion. This is what meaningful training in care truly looks like.
