News
Hear from Watches of Switzerland About Their Experience on Our Level 4 Retail Manager Apprenticeship
9th February 2026
We were delighted to welcome Watches of Switzerland onto our Level 4 Retail Manager Apprenticeship. We recently caught up with the apprentices' line managers to understand the real impact of the programme - on their apprentices, their wider teams and the business as a whole.
The Impact on the Apprentices
When speaking with line managers, it was clear that the apprenticeship had a strong impact on confidence, performance and capability.
Line managers shared how apprentices are now thinking more strategically, developing commercial awareness, and applying their learning directly in their roles.
One line manager shared:
Both managers have gained great amount of confidence and a better understanding of their capabilities which has reflected in the performance of both showrooms. They're looking at their business with a broader vision, rather than their own showroom, with proposals to grow the financials and their people.
Another continued:
"The apprenticeship has had a positive impact on the colleague; she's developed a greater understanding of figures and a commercial awareness through understanding the omnichannel business and how each department filters into and supports one another."
This shows how the apprenticeship has helped mangers move beyond day-to-day operations and develop the skills needed to lead, plan and drive performance.
Impact on the Wider Team
The benefits don't stop with the apprentice. Line mangers also highlighted the positive ripple effect across the wider team.
One manager explained:
Sharing their knowledge and best practice has supported the wider population of managers who call upon them for guidance and support on the key areas of people development and growing their business.
Another added:
"Overall, the apprenticeship has enhanced Oliver's effectiveness as a leader and further reinforced their commitment to developing a high-performing, well-supported team."
By building stronger leaders, the apprenticeship helps create more confident, capable and collaborative teams.
Line Manger Support
Strong line manager support has played a key role in the success of the apprenticeship. Managers described regular check-ins, weekly catch-ups, assigned projects and progress reviews to keep learning relevant and impactful.
One manager shared:
As Supporting Manager, I plan to go through a summary of learning with the colleague, to follow up on their learnings and how they're going to use their new skills to impact our business and develop within their role.
This hands-on approach ensures learning is embedded, applied and aligned to business goals.
Highlights
When reflecting on the apprenticeship, one of the Line Managers shared:
“The apprenticeship has supported Oliver in overcoming challenges such as balancing operational demands with longer-term planning and development. By strengthening his strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, Oliver has been able to navigate these pressures more effectively. Overall, these experiences demonstrate how the apprenticeship has enhanced their existing capabilities and delivered clear value both to the individual and the business.”
Ready to develop your people?
Our apprenticeships range from entry-level roles in customer service and retailing at Level 2, right through to buying and merchandising at Level 6. We work with you to select the most effective programmes for your workforce and can even tailor content to your brand through closed-access cohorts.
Get in touch today to find out how our apprenticeships can help you build confident leaders, stronger teams and long-term business success.
They strive to encourage our learners to excel, and I am proud to say we have achieved fantastic apprenticeship results over the past 5 years
Talent Development Team, Harrods