From Level 3 Procurement Assistant Apprenticeship to CIPS Level 4 Diploma

Kavel Darji, Purchasing Assistant at Bostik Ltd recently passed his Level 3 Procurement Assistant Apprenticeship with Distinction! He talks to Nicky from APA about his experience on the course and how it has benefitted him so far.

🎤 Firstly, congratulations for smashing the Level 3 Apprenticeship with Distinction in your final Project and EPA!  You’ve moved quickly on to CIPS Level 4 Diploma, can you tell me how we have supported you through your Level 3 Apprenticeship?

Thank you! The support throughout my Level 3 Apprenticeship has been excellent. APA provided a clear structure to the course, with well-organised learning materials and regular check-ins from Lynn to keep me on track. Lynn was always approachable and gave constructive feedback, which really helped me improve both my knowledge and confidence.

The balance between coursework, practical examples, and preparation for assessments was key, and I felt supported every step of the way, especially leading up to my final project and EPA. 

🎤 What positive results is your Apprenticeship having on your role and the department you work in?

The apprenticeship has had a very positive impact on my role as a Procurement Assistant. I now have a much stronger understanding of procurement processes, supplier management, and compliance, which allows me to contribute more effectively to the team.

I’ve become more confident in communicating with suppliers and supporting sourcing activities, and I’m able to apply best practice principles in my day-to-day tasks.

Overall, it has helped me add more value to the department by improving efficiency and ensuring that procurement activities are carried out more professionally and strategically. 

🎤 How did you find the EPA for the Level 3 Apprenticeship? How did APA support you through?

The EPA was challenging, and I found myself getting nervous as the date for it approached! But in the end was very rewarding. It was a great opportunity to demonstrate everything I had learned throughout the apprenticeship.

APA (through Lynn) supported me well by preparing me in advance, providing guidance on what to expect, and helping me build confidence in presenting my knowledge and experience. The mock assessments and feedback were particularly helpful, as they gave me a clear idea of how to structure my responses and perform at my best.

🎤 You’re awaiting your start for the CIPS Level 4 Diploma in August, was it important to you to progress swiftly on to the next level?

Yes, it was very important for me to continue progressing. After completing Level 3, I felt motivated to build on that momentum and deepen my knowledge further.

Moving straight on to Level 4 allows me to continue developing professionally and take on more responsibility in my role. It’s also a great opportunity to strengthen my long-term career in procurement and continue improving my skill set. 

🎤 Would you recommend APA to any colleagues looking to start CIPS training?

Yes, I would recommend APA to colleagues. The support, structure, and quality of teaching have been excellent. The tutors are knowledgeable and genuinely invested in helping learners succeed.

The apprenticeship has been a very positive experience for me, and it has helped me develop both professionally and personally.