What made you choose to undertake the Apprenticeship route into Nursing?
The principal reason I choose the apprentice option was because it offered me the perfect opportunity to keep working, and not having to go back to the option of full-time education, as it suited my life style more as i had been working in the health care industry since I was 18.
Why do you think that CUH are a good employer for apprenticeships?
CUH have a standard of care that is safe, kind and excellent, great place to work and a real community. The apprentice program has been very helpful and kind helping me develop new skills professionally and personally.
What does a typical day look like and what do you enjoy about your role?
Typical day of an apprentice nurse is reviewing your new placement area by researching the speciality so you go with a base knowledge. When on placement its setting goals for the day with your supervisors that are achievable and relate to the patient group.
No day is ever the same that's what makes it so enjoyable for me all the new things to learn and experience finding out what area of nursing I enjoy!
What sorts of things do you do for the off the job learning aspect of your apprenticeship and does this involve attending college or is it all completed at work?
This involves attending University, online lectures, and self-directed time to complete assignments and study for exams. This is normally in theory allocated time to complete assignments. The hours are split differently depending on the year you are in, such as Healthcare Support Worker job role time and time allocated for university study.
How have your department supported you within this apprenticeship?
They have been brilliant, the team on the CUH Transplant ward, have always been so supportive and understanding helping me with study and very understanding when my rota needs adapting round my study time.
What are your future intentions?
I hope to qualify with a good grade and knowledge to start my nursing journey as a fully qualified nurse.
What advice would you give to others who may be looking to take on an apprenticeship?
You need to be willing to experience two different roles throughout the four years, one as a HCSW and the other as a student nurse apprentice. It also helps to surround yourself with a good support system. To be open minded and willing to adapt. To take as many learning opportunities as you can, when in drought ask questions or ask for help when needed.
The main theme of this year’s National Apprenticeship Week is skills for life. What are the most important skills for life that you have developed and how has your apprenticeship training helped to build them?
Learning from others across the country in other healthcare setting. Pushing myself outside of my comfort zone and expanding my knowledge of the healthcare sector giving me a confidence in my ability that i will take through my working career.
Time management of different roles, the ability to source up to date information in the most accurate way, so the knowledge acquired is the most up to date.
The team building and creating relationships with different people expanding my cultural awareness.