NAW Thea's story

My interest in finance started while studying business at college. I found myself naturally drawn to the financial modules, enjoying the structure, the problem solving, and the feeling that everything connected in a logical way. When I came across an apprenticeship opportunity at NCH&C, it just clicked-it aligned perfectly with the kind of work I wanted to do.

Another influence? My mum works in the NHS. Hearing her talk about the meaning behind her work made me curious about what a non clinical career within the NHS could look like. Spoiler: it's far more varied and rewarding than people sometimes assume.

I've always known that university wasn't my route. I've always learned better by doing, and I wanted to gain a qualification without the pressure of student debt. Through college, I started learning more about apprenticeships and realised it offered everything I wanted:

• A recognised qualification
• Hands on experience in a real job
• A salary
• A structured path into a long-term career

Plus, with my retail experience, I knew I already had transferable skills-communication, teamwork, organisation-that would support me as I stepped into a professional setting.

Learning on the job (and in the Classroom)

One of the things I've valued most is how my studies and my day to day role complement each other. My qualification has given me a solid grounding in bookkeeping and accounting-skills that are directly relevant not just to my role now but to almost any role in finance. As I've learned more about accountancy, I've started to understand what to look for, how to spot errors, and how to approach problem solving logically and confidently.

I've also developed so many soft skills:

• Using Excel (including formulas I'd never touched before!)
• Communicating effectively within a team
• Staying organised
• Collaborating with people across different finance functions

Every new skill has helped me grow-especially in confidence.

Support that made a difference

I've been incredibly lucky with my manager. Not only has he completed the same qualification I'm working through, but he genuinely gets it. He knows the pressure of exams, the intensity of balancing study with work, and the highs and lows that come with learning something new. His support and encouragement have made such a difference-especially when things didn't go to plan.

I've also had great support from Babington and my skills coach, who has always been there to offer guidance, reassurance, and perspective when I needed it.

Facing challenges (and not letting them win)

I won't pretend everything has been smooth. Exam timetables can be tough, and sometimes the quick turnaround feels overwhelming. At one point, I didn't pass an exam. It would have been easy to quit or assume I wasn't cut out for this-but I didn't. I kept going, used the resources available (like the ACCA pass-rate info), talked things through with peers, and tried again.

And the second time? I passed.

That moment felt huge-not just because of the result, but because I proved to myself that I could come back stronger.

How this apprenticeship has shaped my future

This experience has changed so much for me. My confidence has grown massively. I understand the finance sector so much better now, and I can see myself building a lasting career in it. It's even shaped how I think about the kind of roles I want in the future-potentially stepping into a position where I can support or manage someone and share what I've learned.

To anyone thinking about an NHS Apprenticeship - do it. Honestly, just go for it.

The NHS is an incredible sector to work in-not only because of the difference it makes, but because of the people. You'll meet colleagues who genuinely want you to grow and who will support you every step of the way.

You'll gain real world experience, a qualification, and skills you'll carry with you throughout your career.

It's one of the best decisions I've ever made, and it might be for you too.