I started working in the NHS over 25 years ago in a GP surgery. Seeking to improve my work/life balance after having my son in 2001, I moved to a position within the walk-in centre. From there, I have had various roles within the NHS including D/N clerk and phlebotomy.
In 2015 I started a role as a Radiotherapy Support Worker within Clatterbridge Cancer Centre. This included looking after patients on Radiotherapy and helping out on the Inpatient wards.
Over time I felt like I could do more to help and support the patient’s, which is where the apprenticeship programme supported me to develop.
The Registered Nursing Associate role was advertised within my NHS Trust and I felt like it was my time to further my education. At 39 it wasn’t easy, but with support and help from my family I completed this course.
After working on CDU as a Band 4 RNA for one year I decided that I wanted to continue to complete my top-up and work towards achieving a Band 5 in Pre-Reg Nursing.
My manager supported my application and I was accepted onto the course at the University of Chester. Again, it hasn’t been easy and during the COVID-19 pandemic all lessons were delivered online which was a challenge for me.
But now, I have just 3 months remaining on the Pre-Reg Nursing programme and I’m currently completing my Management placement on Ward 4 at the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre, which I love. So much so, I have just applied for a job on Ward 4 and was successful!
Clatterbridge is where I feel I belong, even when I’m on my placements I can’t wait to get back. Working on Haematology will be a challenge which I am looking forward too.
A word from Kate Badham, Health & Social Care Apprenticeship Learner Mentor:
“Stephanie has been so committed throughout all areas of her studies and clinical practice since joining us here at the University of Chester and has embraced all of the knowledge and skill-based learning as part of her apprenticeship programme.
As her Apprenticeship Learner Mentor, I’m proud of the challenges Stephanie has overcome and have no doubt she will demonstrate all of the new knowledge, skills and behaviours in her future career as a Nurse at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre. Many Congratulations!”
If you’re looking to gain the practical skills and experience that employers are looking for, why not take a look at our Degree Apprenticeships page.
