Yasmin’s following her nursing dream thanks to apprenticeship

It takes commitment and dedication to become a nurse and that’s certainly true of Yasmin Eager who, thanks to apprenticeships supported by Queen Victoria Hospital (QVH), is well on her way to becoming a Registered Nurse.

The theme of National Apprenticeship Week (7-13 February) is ‘build the future’ and for Yasmin she’s building her own future, through not one but two apprenticeship programmes. After completing her Nursing Associate Apprenticeship she’s now studying the Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship.

QVH is able to offer its staff the opportunity to take up apprenticeships to develop the skills and knowledge needed to have a rewarding career whilst earning a salary at the same time. They are available to staff working in a range of clinical and non-clinical roles, and from a level 2 right through to level 7 (Masters).

Talking about apprenticeships Yasmin said: “I’ve worked in healthcare for around eight years, initially in the community, but always knew I wanted to work within a team and to develop my skills and knowledge. I became a healthcare assistant at QVH almost five years ago and straight away knew I wanted to become Registered Nurse. I completed the Nursing Associate Apprenticeship in two years whilst working on the critical care unit. After a year cementing my knowledge and skills, I applied for the Registered Nurse Apprenticeship and am now doing the Registered Nurse Degree course at the University of Brighton jumping in at year 2.”

Asked why the apprenticeship route worked for her, Yasmin said: “I’m a practical learner and felt this was the most appropriate course for me, plus I could earn whilst studying. Although the Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship is a full time university course, I’m still able to work at QVH alongside it. Also, it’s been wonderful to have the support of the Trust behind me. I adore the acute care given at QVH and will carry the skills and knowledge I’ve gained here throughout my career.”

So what advice would Yasmin give to someone thinking about taking on apprenticeship? “Be kind to yourself, try and be as proactive as you can with your learning. You get back what you put in and it’s essential to be a key player in your education.”

Lawrence Anderson, interim director of workforce and organisational development, at Queen Victoria Hospital, said: “Through apprenticeships we are proud to be able to support staff to take their first, or their next step, on the career ladder. Apprenticeships offer a unique way to develop the skills and knowledge needed for a rewarding career whilst earning a wage at the same time. The opportunities are endless.”

For more information please email the QVH Press Office at qvh.communications@nhs.net