NAW Becky's story

From TNA to NDA: Becky Applegate's Apprenticeship Journey at NCH&C

Registered Nursing Associate Becky discusses her Apprenticeship journey from how she started within Healthcare, joining NCH&C, training as a Nursing Associate to now preparing to begin her Nursing Degree Apprenticeship.

Becky's journey into nursing began long before she joined NCH&C. With experience in both a care home and an acute hospital, she already had a foundation in healthcare. But it was the supportive culture at NCH&C that inspired her to take the next step in her career.

She first heard about the apprenticeship programme through the very team she was working with on the bank a team that later became her permanent colleagues and her home ward.

The team I worked with while on the bank encouraged me they're now my home ward.

Their encouragement, paired with the structured support available through the Trust, gave her the confidence to pursue the apprenticeship route.

The Career Development team are always willing to support, and no question is too stupid to ask. I have received support from my team, my manager and the university offer support for the academic side of the apprenticeship.

Skills, confidence and growth

Throughout her apprenticeship, Becky gained essential clinical skills, but the most powerful developments were personal.

I have gained a lot of clinical skills required for my job role. Most importantly my confidence has improved as well as my communication and leadership skills. All this was possible because of the apprenticeship.

Balancing academic study with clinical work was demanding, but support from her team, manager, and university made the journey manageable.

Overcoming challenges

Honest about the realities of juggling work, study and family life. Which is relevant to all apprenticeships. Working and studying offers a great wealth of learning yet does come with its challenges.

 I think challenges are inevitable especially combining clinical working, theory and family life. Having a good support system can't be stressed enough and just asking for help.

A moment that made it all worthwhile

One of Becky's proudest moments came just after qualifying. Still finding her feet, she faced a situation where a patient needed strong advocacy and she stepped up.

When I first qualified and was still trying to gain confidence and I had to advocate for a patient. I was worried no one would take me seriously being newly qualified and my clinical judgement may be dismissed but I was wrong. I was listened to and all worked together for the best interest and outcome for the patient.

Her concerns were unfounded. She was listened to, supported, and part of a collaborative decision made in the patient's best interest - a defining moment of professional growth.

Looking forward

With her TNA apprenticeship complete, Becky is ready for the next chapter.

The apprenticeship prepared me for the future and to work towards achieving my goals.

She began her NDA in October 2025, aiming to qualify as a Band 5 Registered Nurse after two years of training - something she credits to the support of her team, the Career Development team, clinical educators, her manager and the Trust.

Becky's advice to aspiring apprentices

If you're considering an NHS apprenticeship, Becky's message is clear:

Go for it, you will not regret it! Getting paid in exchange for your time to gain lifelong experience, skills and a career it's a no brainer in my opinion. It's well worth it.