Apprenticeship Week 2025 – let’s meet Kimberley

When QVH sleep technician Kimberley Healey was interviewed for a place on a Level 4 Apprenticeship programme she was asked where she saw herself in five and ten years’ time. She knew the answer she wanted to give and she gave it straight away. She told her manager: “In 10 years’ time I would hope to be doing your job!”

No hesitation.

“It did raise eyebrows but I am committed to progressing and advancing in my career. I have always wanted to excel in life and be the best that I can be,” says Kimberley.

And signing up to an apprenticeship programme provides people like Kimberley with a great opportunity to do just that.

Kimberly takes up the story.

“I started working at the Queen Victoria Hospital in January 2019. I initially joined as a Health Care Assistant working in the Burns Unit, but after a month I was transferred to the Sleep Disorder Centre (SDC). After a couple of weeks of working nights in the SDC, I found my passion was in sleep and was offered a permanent position within the department.

“After completing my internal training at QVH and the A-STEP modules via the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, I was emailed about an exciting opportunity: the Level 4 Apprenticeship in Healthcare Science, studying Sleep and Respiratory Science.

“I had to attend the interview and it was there that I gave that answer – ‘Your job, hopefully!’”

Her ambition was rewarded and her application for the apprenticeship was accepted.

“I was offered a place with an apprenticeship, adult education and bespoke training specialist company.

“I have never been very academic. I am more of a hands-on learner, so I saw this apprenticeship as my opportunity to progress within the industry.

“The good thing about an apprenticeship is you learn whilst working, and it does not matter if you are young, old, experienced, or inexperienced.”

And so far, so good.

“It has been a fun and exciting journey and although the course is full on, it is very well structured. Once you get your head around balancing your work, learning and life schedules, you will have enough time to complete your assignment work, as well as learning whilst working.

“I have been incredibly lucky to have the full support of my manager and team around me. I feel privileged to have been given this opportunity, and I am enjoying every moment of my experience. My plan is to apply for the Level 6 apprenticeship after completing my Level 4. I am looking forward to seeing what the future holds for me and my career in Sleep and Respiratory.”

To find out more about apprenticeship opportunities at QVH please email QVH.apprenticeships@nhs.net