Registered nurse degree apprentice Review

On a day to day basis I am a health care support worker for CAMHS but get released to attend university and nursing placements as required in order to become a mental health nurse.

In my first year of training I feel I have developed new skills such as my understanding of the nursing role in mental health as well as developing skills I had already obtained from previous work, these are managing a workload, working as part of a team and being organised.

I find the apprenticeship I am currently completing an enjoyable experience. I especially enjoy the academic side with assignments, however I also enjoy the practical side which involves implementing the skills I have learnt in the theory of my course in to my everyday practice at work as well as when I am a student nurse on placement.

I feel the programme I am attending is well structured gives a good overview of the skills and areas where I need to develop skills in order to become the best mental health nurse possible. It is very well organised, especially in terms of finding out when your next placement is and having adequate time to plan for this.

I receive a lot of support from my employer with regular supervision, helping to identify areas where I can increase my skill base through work opportunities as well as being sign posted to members of the team who are able to aid and assist me with certain aspects of academic work should I require this.

Solent University are very good at providing support. The lecturers and tutors are always there whether it be in person or over email to help advise. When they are unable to do this, they are happy to sign post to other departments of the university that may be able to assist with any issues you may be experiencing.

I believe the skills I am learning through my training provider are applicable not only within my current job role but for my future career as a mental health nurse. I have found the information and skills I have learnt thus far to be highly applicable to my role, thus improving my performance.

Despite there being social activities to join in at work due to the time-consuming nature of the programme, it is hard to attend these events, however I do plan to make more of an effort in the future in order to improve my networking with other professionals and teambuilding outside of work hours.

Yes

I was really lucky to find an NHS apprenticeship to become a nurse, and I am happy with my choice. I feel this is an invaluable and rare opportunity that not only provides essential theory, but also on the job experience relevant to the job and role, helping me to boost my performance.

Most importantly, make sure this is what you want to do. It is a hard course, but definitely achievable and with a supportive employer it really does make a difference. Try not to get too stuck on the academic requirements, this is a small part of what will make you a fantastic nurse.