NAW Aarons story

As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2026, we're shining a spotlight on the people whose careers have been shaped, and transformed through NHS apprenticeship pathways.

One of those people is Aaron, a Senior Community Nurse whose story demonstrates the power of learning on the job, supportive mentorship, and the growing impact of apprenticeships in nursing.

Finding the right path into nursing

For Aaron, the apprenticeship route offered something traditional university study couldn't: a chance to  earn, learn, and gain hands on clinical experience at the same time.

He first discovered NCH&C's apprenticeship opportunities while searching for alternative routes into nursing. At the time, he believed direct entry university was the only option, until an NCH&C representative at an open day introduced him to the  Trainee Nursing Associate  and  Nursing Degree Apprenticeship  pathways.

The idea of working directly with patients, gaining real clinical experience, and being supported academically felt like the right fit for my learning style and long term goals.

His early exposure to healthcare came not through clinical work, but through his time with the  British Army Reserves. This hands on training reinforced his interest in a practical route into nursing and helped him understand the value of experience based learning.

Growth built through theory and practice

Throughout his apprenticeship, Aaron found that academic study and real world experience combined to strengthen his confidence and competence.

He recalls a simulation exercise in university where he practised assessing a deteriorating patient using the ABCDE assessment tool-training that later proved invaluable:

In stressful situations, we fall to the level of our training. Having the simulated and academic backing has helped me many times with real patients.

Over time, he developed essential skills such as:

• clinical decision making
• communication
• workload prioritisation
• time management
• professional confidence

These were skills he applied daily while managing complex patients in the community and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

Support that makes a difference

One of the most impactful parts of Aaron's journey was the support he received from his supervisors, assessors, mentors, and teams across the Trust.

Having access to experienced clinicians who were willing to teach, support, and encourage me made a significant difference to my confidence and development.

This network of guidance helped him not only complete his apprenticeships, but thrive within them.

Overcoming challenges along the way

Balancing academic work, clinical duties, and personal commitments wasn't always easy. Aaron tackled these challenges by refining his organisational skills, being open about when he needed support, and making full use of the Trust's flexibility and encouragement.

His perseverance paid off.

A career milestone to remember

One achievement stands out above the rest:  securing a Band 6 role within 12 months of completing his apprenticeship.

For Aaron, this milestone reflected both his personal growth and the confidence the organisation placed in him.

Today, he works as a  Senior Community Nurse  in an Urgent Community Response team-a role that brings new challenges, opportunities, and the chance to further develop advanced clinical and leadership skills.

His long term ambition?
To progress toward becoming an  Advanced Nurse Practitioner.

Aaron's advice for anyone considering an NHS Apprenticeship

I would honestly encourage anyone considering a nursing apprenticeship to go for it. It's challenging but rewarding. You gain real experience, develop strong professional skills, and are well supported along the way. Being proactive, organised, and open to learning makes a huge difference.

Celebrating apprentices who shape the future of healthcare

Aaron's journey is a testament to what apprenticeships can offer: meaningful learning, real responsibility, and a strong foundation for a long term career in healthcare.

As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2026, stories like Aaron's remind us that apprentices are not just trainees-they're the future of the NHS.