Rota coordinator Review

The heart of my role is managing the rota for junior doctors and Consultants across two acute hospitals. This involves leave requests and staffing - finding cover as necessary for vacant shifts. Additionally, I work closely with senior clinicians and managers to create and update SOPs and Policies - ensuring adherence to KPIs.

My IT skills have developed further - improving use in excel. This has contributed significantly to the department's auditing purposes. Additionally, my communication and presentation skills has also improved as my confidence has developed. I find I am much more able to contribute to the running of the service and operational management.

The programme would be better if one was able to attend classes face to face. However the engagement from some lecturers through the online learning is outstanding. Issues with WiFi however can make it difficult to engage with lecturers at the relevant times due to video lags from end-users and colleagues

This programme is very well organised. Recent months have seen a decline in this but that has been down to an IT hack that occurred pre-Christmas. This has meant however that timetables have not been communicated (easter breaks) etc. and assignments / access to the relevant information has been difficult. Should LSBU resolve these issues soon, i'd imagine we would return to bau.

I am giving the time to attend lectures and complete assignments. Encouragement from immediate line manager has reduced as well as communications from the apprenticeship team. Since starting the course, I have had 1 progress review (nearing the end of a 3 year degree). I find I have more support from employees and managers external to my department.

I do not find the support available external to the lecturers is applicable to an older apprentice with life skills and experience. An initial meeting with the personal tutor found them noting that they could not offer me any help directly. The lecturers themselves are fantastic should you get one who is engaged and competent with online learning

My current role does not really benefit much from the qualification or experience gained. Long-term, the qualification will help / aid in the development of my career - enabling me to progress higher up the ladder to a more managerial role. For me, the course is a long-term progress rather than short-term.

There are minimal regular extra-curricular activities ongoing through work. There is a running group set up and a choir that you have to audition for. Networking events are set up for those of a similar mind (i.e. groups for medical / nursing professionals). Groups appear to be on an 'invite' only basis. Most extra-curricular activities are set up ad-hoc by internal staff and department's

Yes

Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust are an NHS trust who encourage self-development through apprenticeships at all levels. The expectation of experience to apply for and successfully be appointed to a job at the trust is higher than other local trusts. This makes it a more demanding job market but one that offers rewards.

When applying to Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust, ensure you read the job description and person specification. The application should be tailored to the person specification with key points identified throughout. Always make sure you have researched both the trust and department you are applying for for a better chance of success.