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

I support research within Kent, Surrey and Sussex, assisting researchers with costing their ideas for funding submission. Provide support with feasibility to run their study ideas within the NHS or Social Care services. Provide advice and support when studies are not recruiting well and give ideas on how to overcome this. I am involved in about a dozen working groups to improve systems and team workings.

10/10

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

Yes I have. I have not only learned new skills but also developed some of my existing skills with more depth after gaining more academic knowledge about them. This has improved my working day as I am able to use different approaches that maybe I would have done so before.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I have mostly enjoyed it. It has been very difficult to stay committed to a training programme that lasts more than 4 years, staying motivated throughout that period of time can be challenging. Having to shift my work, study and life balances has also been very challenging throughout the last four years.

8/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

It has mostly been very well structured however I did volunteer to become the course study representative as this gave me an opportunity to work more closely with staff based at the university to improve the student experience for current students and students yet to start the course. I have received thanks on many occasions from the university for my critique in helping them to shape their delivery offering.

8/10

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

I received support from my Line Manager only which has been beneficial but not all colleagues even know that I am doing an apprenticeship course alongside my day job.

8/10

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

The university staff have been very helpful when I have needed to ask for help. As a remote learner, I have been able to request virtual meetings with my lecturers to discuss the course content or go through an assignment task together. Remote learning has not been a barrier to my learning.

8/10

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

It definitely helps with the day job and has given me greater confidence in myself and my abilities.

9/10

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.)

We do have a book club that a colleague runs but I have not found the time to join that as I have needed to spend my free time on my studies instead.

6/10

9a. Would you recommend Clinical Research Network Kent, Surrey and Sussex to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

It is a very supportive environment to work in, everybody is willing to share their experiences with each other and even though a hybrid working model has been implemented since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, nobody feels alone when working. Digital technology has allowed us to stay in touch with each other whenever that is needed.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Clinical Research Network Kent, Surrey and Sussex?

Don't hesitate to apply for any vacancies that you may see.

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