Learner Spotlight: Antonia Banjo
Driving Business Impact Through Digital Learning
Antonia Banjo is a Digital Learning Designer at Rolls-Royce SMR, a pioneering clean energy company developing next-generation nuclear technology. In her role, Antonia designs engaging digital learning experiences that support workforce development at scale, helping employees access high-quality learning while delivering measurable business value.
The interview below explores her journey on the Level 5 Digital Learning Designer apprenticeship, from building her expertise in learning design and stakeholder management to leading impactful projects that have improved onboarding, enhanced the learner experience and generated significant cost savings for the business.
From Content Creator to Strategic Learning Designer
Since starting her Level 5 Digital Learning Designer apprenticeship, Antonia has evolved from creating content to designing learning solutions that deliver measurable business outcomes. She now combines technical skills with learning strategy, enabling her to develop scalable, engaging digital learning experiences that align with organisational goals.
Driving Business Impact Through Digital Onboarding
One of Antonia’s standout projects was redesigning Rolls-Royce SMR’s onboarding programme, delivering an estimated £76,000 saving in induction costs while reducing instructor time by six hours per week and saving new starters two hours during onboarding.
By replacing traditional classroom-based inductions with an accessible, self-directed digital experience, new starters can begin learning from day one, regardless of location. The solution has improved efficiency, reduced travel requirements and enabled the business to onboard large numbers of employees consistently as the organisation continues to grow.
Improving the Learner Experience
Antonia’s digital learning solutions have made onboarding more accessible, engaging and inclusive. Learners can access content whenever they need it, progress at their own pace and revisit materials as required. Features such as microlearning, content chunking and adjustable audio playback support different learning preferences, including neurodiverse learners, helping them feel more confident from day one.
Growing Confidence with Stakeholders
The apprenticeship has significantly strengthened Antonia’s stakeholder management skills. Through approaches such as stakeholder mapping, she has learned how to tailor communication styles, build stronger relationships and confidently challenge or influence decisions when necessary. This has helped ensure projects deliver the right outcomes for both learners and the business.
A Journey of Growth and Recognition
Being named LDN Apprentice of the Month in April 2026 was a proud moment for Antonia. The award recognised the impact of her work and reinforced the value she has brought to the business. It also helped boost her confidence, validating the meaningful contribution she is making at Rolls-Royce SMR.
What Antonia Has Enjoyed Most
For Antonia, the most rewarding aspect of the apprenticeship has been the trust and responsibility she has been given. From managing projects independently to presenting to audiences of over 200 people, the programme has accelerated both her professional development and personal confidence.
The Power of Support
Antonia credits much of her success to the support of her line manager and mentor, who have consistently encouraged her, championed her achievements and provided opportunities to take ownership of high-impact projects. Their guidance has played a key role in her growth and success.
Advice for Future Apprentices
Antonia describes the Level 5 Digital Learning Designer apprenticeship as an opportunity to develop both technical expertise and strategic business skills. Beyond content creation, it builds capabilities in stakeholder management, project delivery, learning design and user experience. For anyone looking to accelerate a career in digital learning while making a measurable impact, she believes it provides an exceptional foundation.
Huge thank you to Antonia for telling us more about her experience of the programme. To find out more about the LDN Digital Learning Designer programme, click below.