Meet Paul Kerr

Paul was a graduate apprentice at McDonalds and Glasgow Caledonian University who joined the Business Management graduate apprenticeship programme. Paul considers one of the most notable benefits of his learning journey to be his newfound understanding of the inner-workings of his workplace. Paul notes that the emphasis on combining practical skills with academic theory has allowed him to develop a holistic approach and make academically-informed choices in the day-to-day running of the business, as well as applying this to long-term planning.

Paul has found his experience to be one of huge personal growth as his achievement allows him to demonstrate many desirable qualities sought after by employers such as, good time-management skills, commitment and drive.

Cultivating a strong team

McDonald's franchisee Andy Gibson explains that the Paul's graduate apprenticeship pursuit has been mutually beneficial and has strengthened Paul's relationships and position within the company. While partnership with GCU is excellent for brand visibility and cultivating strong teams, employees own strengths are validated by their academic pursuit. Andy highlights that the program leverages the strengths of individuals and provides them with a broader perspective on their position within the company while GCU works to identify skill gaps specific to the business. Andy emphasizes that the collaboration between GCU and employers, including McDonald's, is not restrictive but rather offers apprentices the opportunity to gain insights into how their workplace fits into the wider business landscape. This collaboration also enables them to acquire industry-led, transferable skills, thereby expanding their horizons beyond the immediate scope of their current role.