Alison Ayliffe-Jessup - Level 5 Nursing Associate Apprenticeship
Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship?
"I had been working as a Healthcare Assistant (HCA) in General Practice for 10 years when my Nurse Manager suggested the Nursing Associate (NA) Apprenticeship programme during my appraisal. At this time, I was 50 and had four teenagers to manage with my partner!
"I had enjoyed a career prior to having children as a Primary Teacher for thirteen years but had taken time out for family and working as an HCA had opened my eyes to new opportunities in Nursing. An apprenticeship was ideal for me as I could study whilst still working."
What stands out about NTU?
"NTU was my first choice. They offered the course that I wanted to undertake, and placements would be based in Nottinghamshire. I chose the Clifton site as I had heard the new facilities for Nursing there were outstanding.
"NTU is really friendly, and the academic staff have been extremely supportive and understanding of the pressures of undertaking an apprenticeship programme."
How do you believe this apprenticeship will affect both your current job role and future career?
"Once qualified I will work full time as a NA in General Practice, and I am keen to carve out a new role and utilise my knowledge and skills in new clinics. I am keen to promote the NA role and develop an understanding of how the role can enhance Primary Care settings.
"I have recently been appointed as Nursing Associate Ambassador for the Nottinghamshire Alliance Training Hub which I am released from clinic time for, and I am excited about the future career opportunities which are available."
How would you rate the teaching and support staff on this apprenticeship?
"The modules taught have been varied and offered opportunities for developing skills and knowledge in new areas. Academic staff have been friendly and approachable, and students have been challenged to meet the expectations of an academic programme."
What do you think of the facilities available at NTU?
"The NOW (NTU Online Workspace) resource offers students an easy way to keep track of their study and their achievements.
"The facilities on the Clifton site are brilliant and the library resources and staff support students to meet the academic challenges of the course."
I would recommend a degree apprenticeship to anyone who wants to further their career whilst still working. My advice would be to do your research and fully understand the commitments involved in undertaking the apprenticeship and then to fully embrace the whole experience as it goes really fast!
What is your favourite thing about your apprenticeship?
"I have loved the programme and all the experiences it has presented for me. Through studying different modules and being on placements in different areas I feel that I approach my work with more enthusiasm, and I certainly get a great deal of satisfaction from my role. I have enjoyed my University Day each week and the programme has given me a rich professional curiosity and encouraged me to be a lifelong learner."
What skills and experience have you gained as part of this apprenticeship?
"I have developed my confidence through working in different teams and in different areas on placements. I have also developed resilience through juggling all my different commitments. The apprenticeship has allowed me to experience all different areas of Nursing and to appreciate the different careers that are available. It has been amazing to have the chance to work in so many different areas."
What advice would you give to someone considering a higher/degree apprenticeship?
"I would recommend a degree apprenticeship to anyone who wants to further their career whilst still working. My advice would be to do your research and fully understand the commitments involved in undertaking the apprenticeship and then to fully embrace the whole experience as it goes really fast!"
To learn more about our apprenticeship courses, please contact apprenticeships@ntu.ac.uk.