Learning disabilities nurse apprentice Review

As I am still in my first year, when I am in the office I shadow and assist with appointments, as well as going on visits and meeting patients and their families. I am then part of the discussions around what would be suitable actions for the patients. I upload information and data gathered onto the electronic system. I take part in training and meetings.

I have learnt a lot more about the broad spectrum of conditions linked to learning disability and how it affects people and their families. I have learnt more about the services and support options that are available. I have developed my communication skills, adapting my communication in different situations such as learning makaton.

I am really enjoying the programme. I am enjoying university lectures and the opportunity to go on placements in different areas within different services and teams. I am also enjoying working and learning new skills, the team I work with are lovely and the apprenticeship team are very helpful when needed,

The programme is structured well. I feel that I have enough time between lectures and work days to completed all assignments, revision on self study that is required. The only difficulty has been that some of the modules have been spread over two semesters so it has been a long time between lectures of the same subject, however good revision sessions have been provided.

I could not ask for more from my employer. I have a great support network within my team and the service as a whole. I have monthly supervision meetings and informal catch up meetings with my line manager and the services matron. Everyone is very supportive and offers help and advice.

I feel that sometimes there is mixed messages from the training provider and things can get a little confused, however on the whole they have been really good so far and will respond to questions in good time and will always offer to help if it is needed. Online revision sessions and briefings have been given to assist with assignments

I feel that I am gaining more experience and confidence in my role. I feel that I am learning learning all of the NMC values and how to put these in to practice day to day in my role. I think that my employer feels confident in me as I am learning these skills.

There are exercise sessions organised by the trust for everyone to take part in, there are also professional days for networking and contact building. There are also social events for the wider team being organised as there are now fewer covid restrictions and larger gatherings are now permitted. We have themed days for charity events etc.

Yes

I think that they are a great service to work for, I have felt supported and encouraged through my apprenticeship so far and feel that they are invested in my progress and want to see me succeed. There are great benefits and wellbeing support available to everyone and they are very inclusive.

Find out about the service and the team that you are applying for, having some backgroud knowledge can be a great head start. There are so many different teams within the NHS, use every opportunity given to you and be proactive in sourcing your own experience. If there is something you would like to learn there is always someone who will be willing to have you to shadow them and teach you.