National Apprenticeship Week - Alice's story
Healthcare apprenticeships continue to play a vital role in developing the future NHS workforce. At Norfolk Community Health & Care NHS Trust (NCH&C), these programmes blend paid employment with structured learning, giving apprentices the chance to work alongside experienced staff while completing nationally recognised qualifications. With dedicated mentors, protected learning time, and a supportive culture, NCH&C provides an ideal environment for school leavers beginning their careers.
One apprentice thriving on this pathway is Alice, who joined NCH&C as a Healthcare Assistant at just 16.
Starting straight from school
Alice began her apprenticeship directly after high school with no prior experience in the sector. Her motivation to join healthcare came from a family influence and a meaningful encounter during her own hospital stay:
My grandma was a nurse and I've always wanted to have a job in healthcare.
I was staying in hospital at the Norfolk and Norwich and there was a TNA looking after me she told me about this apprenticeship route.
This early inspiration encouraged Alice to take the bold first step into a clinical role at a young age-something NCH&C fully supports through its accessible entry level apprenticeship opportunities.
Training and support
Alice's apprenticeship balances hands on experience with structured learning:
There is a great balance between practical learning and study, I have college once a fortnight and am full time on the ward.
She is surrounded by a strong network of educators, mentors, and colleagues:
I have a large support network at work and at college.
Throughout my apprenticeship I have had regular meetings with my clinical educator and career development team at work and with my tutors at college.
This reflects NCH&C's commitment to ensuring every apprentice feels prepared, guided, and confident throughout their development, supported by dedicated assessors and pastoral care.
Skills, challenges, and achievements
Over the course of her apprenticeship, Alice has built a broad skillset:
Communication and teamwork are essential skills in this job role which I have had to change and adapt in situations.
She acknowledges that the work brings challenges typical of early healthcare roles:
Work can be very exhausting so finding a system that works for you to have a good work life balance is crucial.
There has been many challenging patients so it's difficult to learn how you and the team deals with them.
Yet these experiences have helped her grow in resilience. One moment she is particularly proud of showcases her developing professionalism:
A patient fell whilst I was toileting them. I am happy that I dealt with the situation appropriately and asked for assistance from members of my team.
These real world learning moments demonstrate exactly why apprenticeships are such a strong foundation for young people entering the NHS.
Looking ahead
Alice's apprenticeship has not only strengthened her confidence-it has shaped her future goals:
I would like to continue in nursing the apprenticeship route through the TNA and then NDA.
Her long term vision aligns with NCH&C's grow our own philosophy, with many apprentices progressing into permanent roles or higher level apprenticeships within the Trust.
For future apprentices
When asked what advice she would give to someone considering an NHS apprenticeship, Alice offers:
Research all the different career pathways and read in detail the job description before starting.
To gain the most out of the apprenticeship, agree to all opportunities offered such as going to different wards and attending different training sessions.
Her journey demonstrates how transformative an apprenticeship can be, opening doors, building skills, and providing a supported route into a meaningful career.