Medical Simulation Technician Review

by University of Oxford

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I assist in running scenarios for multidisciplinary healthcare professionals with the use of high fidelity manikins and virtual reality systems. For our high fidelity manikin scenarios, often I voice act as the patient in replicating medical conditions that candidates can experience during their shift.

9/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I've learned the medical terminology that is associated with these scenarios, I've learned about phycological safety and Human factors which is an integral part when things go wrong in healthcare. I've developed my skills in presenting and interacting with professionals in the field.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

Although it has come with it's challenges, compared to other apprentices I seem to be the youngest by a large margin. I found this role best suits my natural skill set, I see pursuing a carrier in this field for life.

8/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Since it's a brand new apprenticeship, it can be improved. The training itself is well structured/organised. There was a significant delay due to a Tutor leaving, and paperwork. Started September, didn't actually start the apprenticeship until Mid January.

7/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

The apprentice team are always available when I have concerns, especially with safe guarding. My colleagues are very supportive, most of which have extensive clinical backgrounds that directly help with my duties.

9/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

My tutor is always just an email away if I have any queries. Have 1-1 meeting with her on a monthly basis, and a progress review every few months with my supervisor and manager.

8/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

Moderately helped, problem was that there was a delay in starting the apprenticeship.

7/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

There was a social event after the initial induction with the University of Oxford, after that none. We do occasional social events within my workplace.

7/10

9a. Would you recommend University of Oxford to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

They have good values, and seem to care more about apprentices. Primarily they pay very well, double the average. Working at average pay as an apprentice, with this cost of living crisis I would ignore on that basis alone sadly.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to University of Oxford?

Be yourself, it's a great opportunity in your professional development. Just bear in mind that it isn't as easy as people think to enter.