National Apprenticeship Week 2022

Sophie Rees
MSc Advanced Clinical Practitioner – Level 7

Why did you choose this specific apprenticeship?
I always knew the career path I wanted to take, which was to work as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner. However, I always imagined I would have to do the individual modules through a university as and when I was able, to collectively gain this title.
So when the Trust advertised the apprenticeship route, it was ideal. It meant I have a structured path where all the required modules are achieved in succession. Furthermore, my study days are included as part of my working hours, and I can continue to work in my current role and use my newly learnt competencies and knowledge.

What has been your proudest achievement on your apprenticeship to date?
My proudest achievement so far is having just completed the Non-Medical Prescribing module and passing the practical objective structured clinical examination for this. Having this additional scope of practice will massively influence my ability to care for my patients and support my team. The final module will be a change project/dissertation to hopefully offer an improvement in the frailty service. I am really looking forward to being able to have a positive impact on the service and our patients.

How do you see your apprenticeship helping you to build your career for the future?
It will give me all the tools and required learning to apply for a job as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner. I hope to be able to work in my current role as an ANP and apply my abilities to the service and its users.

What would your advice be to anyone thinking about doing an apprenticeship?
My advice, specifically regarding Advanced Clinical Practice, is to firstly acknowledge the intensity of the course in terms of workload and studying. The fact that it is a MSc means there are four modules to complete, and it is a rolling course so when you finish one module you begin the next. Additionally, does your job role facilitate the required learning, for example being patient-facing and having opportunities to assess patients and make working diagnoses? This is particularly important for the physical assessment module and the non-medical prescribing module.
Finally, ensure your workplace understands the expectations of you and the apprenticeship as you must evidence your accumulation of hours, and these should be factored in as study days. Identifying a designated senior member of the team, which could be another ANP or a consultant, to support you clinically is also important.
Overall, I think the apprenticeship is an excellent route and with the right team and Trust support it can be an amazing opportunity for you as an individual and your advanced scope of practice will be beneficial to your team and overall service.