In May 2022, I took a leap of faith and enrolled in the Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship (CMDA) programme an opportunity that came with both uncertainty and hesitation. Balancing military duties and personal life, I questioned whether I could find the time and motivation to pursue a degree, a dream I had held since leaving formal education in 2005 and joining the British Army.

The CMDA is a three-year, fully funded degree programme delivered by the University of Staffordshire through the Non-Commissioned Officer Academy. It is open to Senior Non-Commissioned Officers, ranging from Sergeant to Warrant Officer Class One. The programme combines weekly online webinars with residential study weeks each semester, offering a flexible yet rigorous pathway to academic and professional development.

I was honoured to be selected for the second CMDA cohort, and from the outset, I was fortunate to receive unwavering support from my chain of command and the exceptional faculty at the University of Staffordshire. Their encouragement was vital, especially during challenging periods marked by overseas training exercises, international travel, and the competing demands of professional and personal responsibilities.

Reliable internet access was often a luxury, but through disciplined time management, task prioritisation, and proactive planning, I remained on track with university deadlines. These coping strategies were recognised and appreciated by my tutors, particularly Dr Karen Castle, my course leader. Her encouragement led to a proud milestone: I was invited to become a founding member of the Gurkha Learning Network an initiative designed to support Gurkha students across the British Army currently undertaking the CMDA programme.

In 2025, I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Professional Management with Distinction a moment that marked not only personal achievement but a collective journey of growth, resilience, and support. I continue to serve as an active member of the Gurkha Learning Network, offering guidance and mentorship to fellow Gurkha students navigating their own CMDA journeys.

To my great honour, I was nominated and awarded Apprentice of the Year 2025 at the University of Staffordshire Business Awards, recognising both my academic success and my contributions to supporting others within the Brigade of Gurkhas.

I strongly encourage all Senior Non-Commissioned Officers to seize the opportunity to pursue a Level six Chartered Management Institute apprenticeship and degree a life changing journey offered completely free of cost.