Henry started as a Laboratory Technician Apprentice in the Haemato-Oncology Diagnostics Service (HODS) Lab.
He has since been promoted and is now working as a Biomedical Support Worker in the same lab. He says that he wanted a career in science as soon as possible as he didn’t like sitting in a classroom learning; he wanted to work in a hospital setting because he enjoyed helping people and learning at the same time.
Henry believes that this is a more interesting way to learn, as he is surrounded by people who want to help him succeed. He also believes that the training opportunities at CUH are plentiful and very helpful.
Why do you think that CUH are a good employer for apprenticeships?
I think CUH are a good employer for apprenticeships because they encourage learning and foster support between staff members to achieve success.
What does a typical day look like and what do you enjoy about your role?
My day usually starts with some lab setup including running controls on a full blood count machine followed up by some reception work, where I send emails and take phone calls. I then move back into the lab to complete tasks such as staining and making blood and bone marrow slides, and perform Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) counts with a microscope.
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?
I did lots of related reading about my department and visited different departments to get an understanding of how everything works. I was offered the chance to shadow people and talk to others about their jobs.
My college lessons were done over teams every Friday with additional assignments being set. There were a few tests to complete due to me not having done A levels before starting the apprenticeship.
How have your department supported you within this apprenticeship?
My department have given me countless opportunities to learn and sit in with them to increase my knowledge, as well as giving me time when I need to complete my college work.
What are your future intentions?
I would like to progress onto the Level 6 Biomedical Scientist Degree Apprenticeship which would lead me into becoming a qualified Biomedical Scientist and would enable me to help as many people as possible and also have fun whilst continuing to learn.
Many apprentices bring unique perspectives or experiences to their roles (for example neurodiversity, ethnicity, faith, or personal circumstances). Is there anything about your personal background or identity that you feel has influenced and/or strengthened your apprenticeship journey?
Coming straight out of GCSEs into the apprenticeship was a little bit scary but, despite being 16, I wanted to learn and get out of the classroom. This apprenticeship provided me with that chance and for that I am eternally grateful.
What advice would you give to others who may be looking to take on an apprenticeship?
I would say to go for it, especially if you dislike classroom learning and want a more hands on approach!