#NAW2022: Supporting a future workforce through apprenticeships
During National Apprenticeship Week 2022 (7-13 February) we will be featuring some of our current apprentices who work across the Trust in different areas and doing apprenticeships at different levels in a wide range of areas. Hearing their stories and how their skills, knowledge and confidence has increased, we will see how apprenticeships are being used within the NHS to upskill staff and ensure they are future-proof and future-ready.
Written by Joy Monye, Senior Nursing Sister in Imaging
Who am I?
I am the nurse manager in diagnostic imaging and have been with the Trust for more than 10 years. I currently manage 21 staff members and support the diverse multi-professional team I work with. My role is to look at new and innovative models that will support skilled professionals to provide care that is equivalent to their role and training whilst rendering safe, effective and high quality diagnostic support.
How many staff do you have on apprenticeships now?
At the moment, there are five apprentices in the department and they are doing Healthcare Support Worker (Standard) Level 2 and Senior Healthcare Support Worker Level 3.
The last two years have been difficult. Has COVID influenced what the apprentices do in the workplace?
During the first wave of Covid, the apprentices that were available were very worried and concerned about how it would affect them and the possible impact it would have on their family members. The risk assessment was performed for all staff; they were educated about Covid and reassured. The right PPE was made available and they were taught the donning and doffing of the PPE.
This made the apprentices more comfortable and pushed them on to become more confident in what they do. They were communicating effectively among the team members and working together ensuring best practice of care.
What have you learnt by working with apprentices?
My first two apprentices were in 2012. They had no real knowledge of what a health setting was all about. Whilst initially challenging, I learnt to be committed in ensuring that the apprentices felt supported in delivering the best possible patient care. I learnt to listen without interrupting and give constructive feedback, I created roles and responsibilities for their assessors to make sure that our apprentices can deliver safe, effective and efficient care without compromise.
How many of your apprenticeships have gone onto further development?
Every apprentice that has qualified in radiology has progressed following completion of their apprenticeship. They have moved either into a higher banding role or into other areas such as service management and human resources. Some have completed other apprenticeships such as Assistant Practitioner or Level 5 Management and taken the career pathway towards nursing.
Seeing people go through an apprenticeship starting without any knowledge of a hospital setting and qualifying with very good results, such as merit and distinction grades, is really rewarding.
The theme for this year is “Build the Future”, what has been the main benefit of having apprentices within your department?
Seeing the apprentices living the North Mid values and making an impact on the team.
What would you say to anyone considering an apprenticeship?
Go for it! To achieve the best you must be determined and hardworking.