NAW Tom's story

What first sparked your interest in applying for an apprenticeship at NCH&C, and what aspects of the organisation or role really drew you in?

I have a keen personal interest in sustainability. When the opportunity came up to gain a qualification in sustainability in healthcare, it sparked my interest

Before starting your apprenticeship journey, what experiences (formal, informal, or personal) shaped your interest in doing this apprenticeship(s), and how did they influence your decision to pursue this path?

Before starting my apprenticeship journey, I found that I sometimes struggled to build a strong case for sustainable action. While my personal beliefs were strong, I did not have the skills to build solid business case and carry out carbon accounting to measure the potential benefits. I also found that without further qualifications I will struggle to advance in my career. Being able to learn skills that align with my personal values and offer career development has been amazing!

Can you describe how you first discovered the apprenticeship pathway and what stood out to you when you were exploring your options?

I was made aware of the apprenticeship pathway through a presentation from LDN apprenticeships, my apprenticeship provider. The fact that the course does not cost me anything stood out, along with the ability to work towards the qualification during work hours.

What are some of the most valuable skills, insights, or pieces of knowledge you've developed during your apprenticeship(s), and how have you applied them in real situations?

The stakeholder management skills that the course has taught me have been some of the most valuable. By mapping the stakeholders for my role I have been better able to communicate with different groups of colleagues and have been able to work better as part of the NCH&C team.

Can you share an example of how your on the job experience and your study/training have complemented each other, and how that combination has helped you grow?

One of the areas I manage is the pool car fleet. I was able to use the carbon accounting skills from the course to apply for - and receive - funding for chargers to convert to an all-electric pool car fleet.

What support or mentoring have you received and has this made a difference to you?

I have received support and mentoring from LDN apprenticeships, the Learning and Development Team from my Trust and from the senior leaders of my department. All this support has been really valuable as the course gets tougher and time management became a real factor.

What challenges have you encountered along the way, and how have you approached and overcame them?

Balancing my day-to-day workload with the apprenticeship learning has been very challenging. Fortunately, my line manager committed to making time for my off the job learning at the start of the course and stuck to that commitment.

Thinking back over your apprenticeship, is there a moment or achievement that stands out as something you're especially proud of? What made it meaningful to you?

Can I have two? Organising the bike week event was really fun - that's me in the picture. Winning the funding for EV chargers made me feel very proud.

In what ways has this apprenticeship shaped your confidence, skills, or outlook as you think about your future career?

By giving me the skills and tools to make the case for sustainable change the apprenticeship has allowed me to make real and lasting change in my area of work. For this to be possible before I even finish the course gives me great confidence in the future.

How has your experience influenced your career ambitions, and what steps are you hoping to take next?

I am happy in my role, in it there is plenty of work to do around sustainability. I hope long term to be able to contribute more to the trusts green plan commitments.

If someone was thinking about applying for an NHS apprenticeship, what honest advice or encouragement would you give them based on your own journey?

Do it! It may be the best decision you ever make. Be realistic with your line manager at the start. This is a big time commitment so make sure they are on board with dedicating time away from your current role. Don't try to squeeze it in the gaps!