Learning disability nurse apprentice Review

During working days I am either in the office with the team completing assessment documentation, assessing referrals and taking part in case discussion, or out on visits to patients homes or schools to observe, assess and treat. On university days I am on campus taking part in lectures, seminars or practical clinical skills sessions.

I have learnt many new skills, as part of the apprenticeship programme I am required to complete evidence paperwork, off the job, to show new skills learnt each month. I learn new skills both on working, days by shadowing and working independently, and university days. I feel a lot more confident in my job role with the skills I have learnt.

I thoroughly enjoy my programme. I am very lucky to work within a great team and work with some amazing patients and their families. I also have a great cohort of fellow students and lecturers. I have found that everyone I have worked with on this course is very friendly and helpful.

As the programme runs along side the BN programme there are some difference which are not always made clear or communicated effectively. This has caused some stress, but is always dealt with efficiently when bought to the course leads attention. The structure of the course if good, two modules running concurrently is busy but manageable.

My employer is very supportive, they do their best to help me gain every possible experience I am able to. This extends through the wider team as I often speak with managers of the service regarding my progress and opportunities while on the course. I am never afraid to voice my opinion as I feel well supported.

At times it can feel like I have to reach out for support and it is not readily available, however when I do reach out there is always support offered. There is always the opportunity to have support with assignments if it is needed, and feedback after assignment results are recieved.

I started my job role and apprenticeship alongside each other which means i do not have as much experience as some of my peers, so i have found the training for my qualification has allowed my performance at work to improve and visa versa my progess at work builds my knowledge which i am able to apply in my academic work.

I have not been able to take part in any extra curricular events in the workplace as I have been able to find a good balance between university, work, academic assignments and family life so do not feel that I have time for anything else, although when there are less demanding time, such as over the summer I may decide to partake.

Yes

They are very supportive and have many opportunities and apprenticeships available. I cannot fault the experience I have had and the extra opportunities I am exposed to and the autonomy they give me to develop my skills and knowledge but with support whenever I need it. They genuinely want to help apprentices progress.

Ask lots of questions about the opportunities that are available take all opportunities offered. They are a big trust so there are many places you can visit and people to talk to to develop your skills and knowledge. No question is a stupid question, if you never ask you will never know.