Sophie is currently working as an Assistant Practitioner in the Breast Screening Unit.
She previously completed the Mammography Associate Level 4 Apprenticeship and has since progressed onto the Assistant Practitioner in Mammography Level 5 Apprenticeship.
She says that she chose to do an apprenticeship because she enjoys the practical side of learning and is able to gain job-specific skills with a recognised qualification without the worry of university debt!
Why do you think that CUH are a good employer for apprenticeships?
CUH is a fantastic place to learn new skills and gain opportunities. I have been lucky to see how the patient pathway develops, I have spent days in the Histopathology Lab learning breast dissection and days in Theatre seeing our fantastic surgeons perform lifesaving procedures.
What does a typical day look like and what do you enjoy about your role?
My day usually starts with performing quality assurance tests on all our mammography machinery to ensure we are working within radiation limits. Here at The Cambridge Breast Unit, we offer assessment of patients referred from their GP with breast concerns, surveillance for patients known to be at high risk of breast cancer.
My role is to produce high quality diagnostic mammograms for the radiologists to interpret. As an Assistant Practitioner I also assist in ultrasound and our vacuum assisted biopsies. You can also find me on our mobile screening vans out in the community. I actively participate in mentoring and coaching our current Level 4 trainees and have taken up the role of patient experience lead. Through patient feedback I am keen to find ways we can improve the service.
Every day is different, my job can be challenging as it is a physical job and I work in a fast-paced environment, often with anxious patients. However, it is rewarding, and I get to meet some amazing, inspiring people.
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 had to attend an online university course for several days throughout the year. This involved lectures with highly skilled mammographers and members of the breast screening programme. I then had to complete a range of practical competencies, essays and presentations to gain my qualification.
How have your department supported you within this apprenticeship?
The CBU is a very supportive working environment, I have been allocated study days to complete the paperwork aspect and mentor support through my colleagues who have taught me valuable skills and knowledge.
What are your future intentions?
I am currently finishing my first year of the new Level 5 Assistant Practitioner Integrated Foundation Degree. This will develop my academic skills, gaining a Degree Award whilst developing the workplace knowledge, behaviours and skills to support the wider scope of practice.
After completion of the Level 5 Foundation Degree, I am hoping further opportunities develop for Assistant Practitioners gaining an Undergraduate Degree. This would allow me to be eligible to apply for registration with the HCPC as a Diagnostic Radiographer upon completion.
What advice would you give to others who may be looking to take on an apprenticeship?
Be eager to learn, ask questions, embrace challenges, manage your time.