National Apprenticeship Week: Lisa’s Story
Apprenticeships have become a valuable pathway for healthcare professionals to advance their skills and make meaningful contributions to patient care. In celebration of National Apprenticeship Week, we spoke with Lisa Donaldson, a Clinical Nurse Specialist and Trainee Advanced Clinical Practitioner, about her experience and how the apprenticeship journey has shaped her career.
Q1: What inspired you to choose an apprenticeship, and how has it shaped your career aspirations?
I chose this apprenticeship because it provides grassroots staff with the opportunity to access higher education, fully funded through the UK Government apprenticeship scheme. This removes financial barriers and allows individuals like me to advance professionally while continuing to work in the NHS.
So far, my ACP MSc has not only strengthened my clinical skills but also broadened my aspirations by giving me the confidence and tools to contribute to the future of healthcare delivery. I now envision myself playing a key role in clinical leadership and shaping innovative practices that improve patient care and staff development.
Q2: What skills or knowledge have you gained during your apprenticeship that you find most valuable?
One of the most valuable skills I’ve developed is in comprehensive physical assessment, which has enhanced my ability as a nurse specialist to provide high-quality patient care and clinical decision-making. Additionally, the course has deepened my understanding of healthcare leadership and my own leadership styles, operational management, and the strategic challenges facing the NHS. Having access to a clinical supervisor working within the Trust has also been invaluable; they help me remain accountable to both the Trust’s objectives and the needs of our patients, ensuring that my learning is practical and maintains impact.
Q3: How has your apprenticeship helped you contribute to improving the experience of patients or staff within the Trust?
This apprenticeship has enabled me to directly apply my growing skill set to improve the experience of both patients and staff. By using enhanced assessment skills and evidence-based leadership strategies, I’ve been able to contribute to more efficient care pathways and advocate for initiatives that support staff wellbeing.
I am especially keen on supporting nursing staff to engage with research as we are currently underrepresented in this arena. Additionally, my final year master's dissertation focuses on nurses’ perceptions of the use of AI in their clinical work. This research has the potential to inform the future support and teaching of staff, ensuring the workforce is equipped to embrace emerging technologies in ways that benefit our patients.
Q4: What support or opportunities have you received that made a difference in your apprenticeship journey?
Having colleagues across the Trust on the same course has been immensely helpful. The mutual guidance and support help to keep the stress levels manageable! The workforce development team have also provided advice and assistance. Having protected study time enables an effective balance between work and my academic responsibilities. Networking opportunities, both within the organisation and externally, have enriched my learning and confidence by exposing me to new ideas and practices across the healthcare sector.
Q5: What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?
I would wholeheartedly encourage anyone considering an apprenticeship to take the leap. It’s a unique opportunity to gain advanced qualifications while working and learning on the job. Use the experience to expand your personal and professional skills and make most of the support available. Your emerging knowledge will directly influence your role, as it will not only enhance your development but will also be a positive contribution to your patients and colleagues. Finally, expect to be challenged!
Whether you are just starting your career or looking to advance your skills, apprenticeships offer a fantastic opportunity to grow while making a difference in the healthcare sector.
