Chris Sherman Achieves Distinction

A post by Skills for Security.

Chris Sherman, based at Canary Wharf, has achieved a Distinction in his Level 3 Security Management apprenticeship, marking a significant milestone in a journey defined by resilience, determination and personalised support.

Chris’ path has not been conventional. From primary school, he attended a special educational needs school where he often felt like an outsider. During secondary school, he recalls being labelled “the special kid,” seated at the back of the classroom with a tutor because of his diagnoses of dyslexia and dyspraxia. He left school with just one GCSE.

More than 25 years later, those early labels no longer define him.

Through persistence and a strong work ethic, Chris has built a successful career through an apprenticeship at Skills for Security and now hears words of recognition and congratulations from colleagues and peers.

A key part of Chris’ apprenticeship journey was the support he received from his tutor, Mike Walker. Chris credits Mike’s guidance and encouragement as instrumental in helping him complete the course.

When Chris first enrolled on the apprenticeship, he felt both nervous and optimistic.

From the start, Mike created a supportive learning environment that helped Chris feel comfortable and confident. Throughout the course, Mike provided additional explanations when needed, ensuring that Chris fully understood each topic before moving forward. His calm, patient, and professional approach made a significant difference to Chris’ learning experience.

The structured feedback provided after each session also played a crucial role in Chris’ progress. His reports were clear, concise, and focused, highlighting areas for improvement while offering practical guidance on how to develop further. The feedback he received has helped Chris build confidence and continuously refined his skills.

Over the course of the apprenticeship, Chris developed a wide range of holistic skills that have strengthened both his professional and personal capabilities. His communication skills have improved significantly, particularly when interacting with colleagues, members of the public, and senior management.

The apprenticeship has further improved his time management, organisation, and willingness to reflect on feedback to continually enhance his performance.
Looking ahead, Chris is focused on progressing his career. His immediate goal is to secure a promotion when the opportunity arises and take on greater leadership responsibility within his organisation. He is already planning ahead for his next steps and his long-term goal is to move into a management role where he can lead teams effectively and contribute to the overall success of the organisation.

His story is a powerful reminder that early challenges do not determine future success. With discipline, commitment, and the right support from a committed tutor, barriers can be overcome and ambitions achieved.