UWTSD graduate applies Master’s learning to improve local authority business planning

Abigail Cole, a graduate of the MA Professional Practice at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), has used her postgraduate research to support improvements to business planning processes at Carmarthenshire County Council. 

After completing her undergraduate degree, Abigail joined Carmarthenshire County Council through its graduate scheme. The opportunity enabled her to begin studying at UWTSD alongside full-time employment, ultimately leading to the completion of her Master’s in Professional Practice. 

Now working as a Data Insight and Performance Officer within the local authority, Abigail chose the MA Professional Practice because of its flexibility and its close connection to workplace learning. She said:  

“The course was flexible around my work, which was important while working full-time. It also allowed me to integrate my learning into my day-to-day role and tailor my studies to my experiences at work.” 

Abigail began the course with the ambition of building on her existing skills and applying them more effectively in her professional role, while also developing new capabilities in areas including project management. 

A key highlight of the programme was the opportunity to undertake research with a direct, practical impact. Abigail particularly enjoyed applying the knowledge gained through the course to specific areas of her work, enabling her to identify opportunities for improvement in everyday processes. 

As part of her Master’s studies, Abigail investigated the effectiveness of business planning processes and templates used across Carmarthenshire County Council. 

Each year, departments across the authority complete annual business plans outlining the actions and measures used to monitor what they do and how well they do it. Abigail’s team had identified challenges in both the way information was collected and the level of detail being gathered. They also recognised an opportunity to make the process more comprehensive by incorporating additional information, including risk. 

Through her research, Abigail explored the factors that contribute to effective business planning templates and processes across the public and private sectors, both nationally and internationally. She also gathered the views and experiences of officers from a range of council departments on the existing process. 

The findings helped inform a redesign of the business planning template and its supporting process, drawing on evidence and best practice. Abigail then followed the redesign through implementation, gathering feedback from officers after its introduction to assess the improvements achieved and identify areas for further development. 

“The research modules were a real highlight. I was able to use what I had learned during the course and apply it to specific areas of my work. I could see the real-world application of my learning while making recommendations for improvements within the processes we use every day.” 

Balancing postgraduate study with full-time employment was one of Abigail’s main challenges. However, she says the support of UWTSD tutors was instrumental in helping her manage the demands of the programme. She added: 

“The tutors were key in helping me overcome this challenge. They were extremely helpful in outlining timelines, setting clear expectations and breaking the work down into manageable chunks. This support helped me to manage my workload effectively.” 

Sarah Loxdale, Senior Lecturer said: 

 “Abigail’s work is an excellent example of how the MA Professional Practice enables students to directly connect academic learning with real-world impact. Her research not only demonstrates strong analytical and critical thinking skills, but also delivers tangible benefits within her organisation. It’s particularly rewarding to see students like Abigail grow in confidence and apply their learning in ways that make a meaningful difference to public sector practice.” 

The course has also supported Abigail’s personal development, particularly by strengthening her confidence in public speaking. Through presenting research as part of her assessments, she developed skills that she has since transferred directly into her work at the local authority. Abigail explained that:  

“I have always been nervous about presenting, but the course gave me the opportunity to develop these skills. By the time I completed my final research project, I had much more confidence presenting in front of others. I now feel far more confident when delivering presentations in my role.” 

Abigail would recommend the MA Professional Practice to others looking to develop their careers while continuing in employment. 

“I have been able to develop skills and acquire learning that I will use throughout my career. The tutors are very knowledgeable and helpful.” 

Lowri Harris PPF Programme Manager at UWTSD added: 

 “The MA Professional Practice is designed to support professionals in developing their skills while making a positive impact within their workplace. Abigail’s journey highlights the flexibility and relevance of the programme, as well as the value of work-based learning in driving organisational improvement. We are proud to support learners like Abigail in achieving their goals and advancing their careers while contributing to their organisations and communities.” 

Abigail is continuing in her role as a Data Insight and Performance Officer at Carmarthenshire County Council, where she will continue to apply the knowledge, skills and confidence developed through her studies at UWTSD. 

If you’re interested in developing your professional practice, applications are now open for the October intake, please email ppf@uwtsd.ac.uk or visit https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/professional-practice-framework for more information.

Further Information

Lowri Thomas

Principal Communications and PR Officer     
Corporate Communications and PR     
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk     
Phone: 07449 998476