Antonela is currently working as a Theatre Support Worker where she is completing her Assistant Practitioner Level 5 Apprenticeship training which, once qualified, will lead her on to the Operating Department Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship.
She explored other apprenticeship programme options offered by different Trusts, but chose to do an apprenticeship at CUH, because of its strong reputation for patient care, professional development and as a training centre.
Antonela believes that the main advantage of an apprenticeship is learning and earning at the same time, as the Assistant Practitioner Apprenticeship is a hands-on role and unlike purely classroom-based education, allows her to apply what she learns straight away in a real workplace.
It has helped her to build confidence, gain practical skills, understand the work ethic alongside expanding her theoretical knowledge. Overall, she feels an apprenticeship offers the best balance of practical experience, structured learning and career progression.
Why do you think that CUH are a good employer for apprenticeships?
CUH offers the opportunity to learn in a real clinical environment, alongside experienced professionals which is very motivating. The supportive learning culture at CUH makes it an ideal place for individuals to develop both personally and professionally.
What does a typical day look like and what do you enjoy about your role?
Working in theatres, I am learning how to be an Assistant Scrub Practitioner which involves preparing instruments and consumables for surgery, passing instruments to surgeons and assisting them at every stage of the procedure.
When I am not scrubbed for a case, I act like an advocate for the patient, ensuring that safety, privacy and the dignity of the patient are maintained at all times, and the sterile field is respected. As a circulator, I provide support for the surgical team. I also observe my senior colleagues, actively listen to them and the surgeons to absorb as much information as possible to help me become a reliable and skilled healthcare professional.
The theatre environment is special, you either love it or hate it and I love it! I have a special calling for one-to-one person-centred care. I love what happens in theatres, from collecting patients for surgery, anaesthesia induction, preparing the theatre for procedures, surgeries itself and recovery time. It is a very challenging and demanding work environment but equally meaningful and rewarding.
It is an honour and a privilege to look after people in their most vulnerable moments, and I am grateful I have the chance to work in a team that makes a real difference in people’s lives.
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?
For my off the job hours, I have one theory day every week where I attend Zoom meetings with our lecturers from the University; they deliver the theory in weekly units in a clear and concise way which is easy to follow and understand. This day is dedicated to self-study, learning activities, weekly projects or various assignments.
My last project was a Mental Health Campaign towards colleagues, called “Mental Health matters-at work and beyond.” I also have external placements other than my own working area for observation, plus I explore new learning opportunities for my Continuous Development Plan and consolidate my learning.
How have your department supported you within this apprenticeship?
The Educational Team at CUH is fantastic. They are approachable, open, friendly and very supportive and I benefit from their ongoing guidance. It feels so comforting to know they are there and it gives me confidence and courage tostep outside my comfort zone, to think outside the box, to grow, to improve and become better every day.
My department (Neuro Theatres) are also amazing, from Matron, Team Leaders, Clinical Leaders, Scrub Practitioners, Theatre Support Workers, Surgeons, they are all brilliant. Teamwork is the key word in our department. We are like a family: we look after each other and together we look after our patients, provide them with high standard person-centred care.
I am forever grateful to my colleagues for all their care, the ongoing support, for the learning opportunities, for their guidance and kindness. I feel lucky and blessed to be part of such an amazing team.
What are your future intentions?
After I graduate, I intend to continue my career progression and move onto the Operating Department Practitioner Apprenticeship Degree.
What advice would you give to others who may be looking to take on an apprenticeship?
If you want a hands-on role and to learn and earn at the same time, an apprenticeship is the perfect choice. Explore your options and start shaping your career today! It’s in your hands, it’s up to you and you’ll benefit from it sooner than you think!