At Nottinghamshire Healthcare, we're committed to continuing to build our apprenticeship offer, and to support our apprentices to get the most out of their experience.
We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to reach their career potential. We offer Apprenticeships to everybody; from school leavers on the first step on the career ladder, through to existing members of staff who want to enhance their career prospects and develop their skills and expertise.
There is no age limit; you can undertake an apprenticeship at any time in your life. They are a valuable way to develop skills and provide training opportunities throughout your career and are delivered in partnership with quality assured education providers.
What is an Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are work based training programmes where employees work towards a set of national standards which help employers train people for specific roles. It combines practical training in a job with study.
Who can access an Apprenticeship?
Our apprenticeships are available to existing staff at all levels and new recruits to the organisation, if it is relevant to their role and they have their managers approval.
Will I get paid?
Apprentices are employed and will receive a salary.
Existing staff undertaking an apprenticeship to develop in their role will continue to be paid at their current rate of pay whilst undertaking an apprenticeship.
How long does an Apprenticeship take?
Apprenticeships generally take between 12- 36 months to complete, depending on their level.
All apprentices are given time to develop during their working hours, including a requirement for a minimum of 20 per cent ‘off the job’ training. This does not necessarily mean that apprentices must attend college, but they do need to be undertaking some sort of training/development activity.
What level of qualification will I receive when I finish?
Individuals can undertake an apprenticeship at any level. There are apprenticeships starting at equivalent to GCSE level, all the way up to Foundation, Honours and Master’s degree level.
What types of Apprenticeships are there?
Nottinghamshire Healthcare offer a variety of Apprenticeship programmes, in both clinical and non-clinical areas from Level 2 – 7, including:
- Healthcare Support Worker
- Assistant Practitioner
- Healthcare Science Assistant
- Healthcare Science Associate
- Healthcare Science Practitioner
- Assistant Accountant
- Business Administration
- Customer Service
- Digital and Technology
- Leadership and Management
- Education and Learning
- Human Resources & Organisational Development
- Estates and Facilities
Benefits of an Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships are a great way to attain a nationally recognised qualification whilst enhancing your professional skills, knowledge and behaviours.
- Gain job specific skills
- Further your career potential
- Earn a wage whilst studying.
- Gain valuable work experience
- Get time for study related to your role
- Achieve nationally recognised qualifications
- Widening access to career opportunities and progression
Colleague profiles - National Apprenticeship Week 2025
At Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, we are proud to celebrate the stories of our incredible staff during National Apprenticeship Week.
In this section:
Emmie Chiweshe, Enhanced Clinical Practice (ECP) apprenticeship
Melissa Every, Occupational Therapy apprenticeship
Stacey Scott, Pre-Registration Trainee Pharmacy Technician apprenticeship
Suzanne Holmes, Corndel Level 5 Leadership and Management apprenticeship
Wendy Mackay, Occupational Therapy apprenticeship
Phil Noone, Level 3 Installation and Maintenance Electrician apprenticeship
Emily Wheelhouse, BSc (Hons) Speech and Language Therapy apprenticeship
Claire Flint, Level 7 leadership and management apprenticeship
Nicola Threlkeld, Level 5 Operational / Departmental Manager apprenticeship
Esmae Gaunt, BSc (Hons) Speech and Language Therapy apprenticeship
Johnna Donovan, Psychology apprenticeship
Emmie Chiweshe, Enhanced Clinical Practice (ECP) apprenticeship
Emmie Chiweshe, a valued member of our Community Health Care Group, is one such individual making a difference through her learning journey.
What course are you studying?
I am currently enrolled in the Enhanced Clinical Practice (ECP) apprenticeship, which I began in September.
What inspired you to take this course?
I wanted to enhance my clinical skills to provide a better quality of care to patients with increasingly complex needs in the community.
How did you discover this opportunity?
I learned about the course through my previous job, and it felt like the perfect step forward in my career.
What has your experience been like?
The ECP course has been both enjoyable and challenging, especially during the winter pressures. Despite the challenges, I've felt incredibly supported and am already applying my learning to benefit patients in my day-to-day work.
I have also found that there aren't many Allied Health Professionals at my university but we have been made very welcome and many apprenticeships are appropriate and inclusive to Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech and Language Therapies. The few I have networked with are enjoying the course. So, if you are an AHP like me then do consider this route!
What advice would you give to others considering an apprenticeship?
The apprenticeship team at Notts Healthcare is fantastic, even if you just want to chat about your options. My advice: start there-you might surprise yourself with what you're capable of!
Melissa Every, Occupational Therapy apprenticeship
Melissa Every, from the Forensic Health Care Group, shares her path to a new and fulfilling role as an Occupational Therapist.
What course are you studying?
I'm nearing the end of my first year in the OT (Occupational Therapy) Apprenticeship program.
What inspired you to take this course?
I transitioned from being a secondary school teacher to working in the hospital's education service and library. While this was less stressful than teaching and I enjoyed my job and loved my colleagues, I really wanted a complete change away from Education. Through my role, I worked closely with OTs, and after shadowing and learning about their holistic approach to healthcare, I realized it was something I would truly enjoy. I loved the idea of being more directly involved in patient care, so I applied for the apprenticeship and was thrilled to be accepted!
How did you discover this opportunity?
I learned about the apprenticeship through an email sent to staff in Day Units.
What has your experience been like?
It's been incredibly rewarding. I've learned so much already and particularly enjoyed the opportunity to go on placement in a completely different setting, where I experienced physical healthcare. The university professors are fantastic at linking theory to real-world experiences, which has made the learning journey both engaging and practical.
What advice would you give to others considering an apprenticeship?
Take advantage of every opportunity to learn in different settings-shadowing, observing, assisting-it all adds up to a richer experience.
Thank you, Melissa, for sharing your inspiring story! Apprenticeships like these enable our staff to grow their skills and make a meaningful impact on patient care.
Stacey Scott, Pre-Registration Trainee Pharmacy Technician apprenticeship
Stacey Scott, from the Mental Health Care Group, shares her experience of becoming a Pre-Registration Trainee Pharmacy Technician.
What course are you studying?
I'm completing the Pre-Registration Trainee Pharmacy Technician apprenticeship.
What inspired you to take this course?
It was a natural progression from my role as an ATO (Assistant Technical Officer). I wanted to build and develop my knowledge to further my career in pharmacy.
How did you discover this opportunity?
I learned about the apprenticeship through my workplace, where it was highlighted as a great progression option.
What has your experience been like?
I've really enjoyed the course! The coursework covers a wide range of interesting topics, which keeps things engaging. I've also been very well supported by my workplace training supervisor, who has ensured I've gained experience in a variety of areas within our Trust.
What advice would you give to others considering an apprenticeship?
Go for it! You'll enjoy all the varied experiences while completing your training-it's a fantastic opportunity.
Thank you, Stacey, for sharing your story! Apprenticeships like this play a vital role in developing our workforce and improving the care we provide to our communities.
Suzanne Holmes, Corndel Level 5 Leadership and Management apprenticeship
Suzanne Holmes, from the Mental Health Care Group, shares her transformative experience with the Corndel Level 5 Leadership and Management programme.
What course are you studying?
I'm currently undertaking the Corndel Level 5 Leadership and Management apprenticeship.
What inspired you to take this course?
I've been supervising a team and aspire to step into a team leader role. I wanted to ensure I have the knowledge and skills to lead effectively in the future.
How did you discover this opportunity?
My line manager introduced me to the programme as a development opportunity.
What has your experience been like?
Before starting, I felt stagnant in my role with limited development opportunities. This programme has given me a renewed sense of purpose, improving my motivation and drive. The first unit focuses on self-reflection, which helped me analyse my strengths, identify areas for improvement, and consider who I want to become as a leader.
The programme has been incredibly empowering. It's shown me that I have abilities I didn't realize I possessed and that I'm capable of achieving more than I thought possible.
What advice would you give to others considering an apprenticeship?
Make the most of any apprenticeship opportunities that come your way. They're a fantastic way to develop yourself. The Leadership apprenticeship equips you with tools and knowledge you can immediately apply in the workplace, helping you grow into a better leader.
Thank you, Suzanne, for sharing your inspiring story! Apprenticeships like these empower our staff to reach their full potential and continue making a positive impact.
Wendy Mackay, Occupational Therapy apprenticeship
Wendy Mackay, from the Community Health Care Group, shares her experience with the Occupational Therapy apprenticeship.
What course are you studying?
I'm currently undertaking the Occupational Therapy apprenticeship.
What inspired you to take this course?
By completing an apprenticeship, I can earn while working toward a degree, which made it an ideal choice for me.
How did you discover this opportunity?
I learned about the apprenticeship through the Learning and Development team.
What has your experience been like?
The course is challenging and has required a significant amount of my spare time, but I feel incredibly fortunate to have this opportunity. It's enabling me to learn and work toward becoming a qualified therapist, something I value greatly-especially at my age.
What advice would you give to others considering an apprenticeship?
Go for it!
Thank you, Wendy, for sharing your story. Apprenticeships like these provide valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth, helping our staff achieve their career aspirations while making a difference in the lives of others.
Phil Noone, Level 3 Installation and Maintenance Electrician apprenticeship
Phil is no stranger to success-he was named JTL Nottingham Apprentice of the Year 2024, an incredible achievement that reflects his hard work and dedication.Read more about Phil's award win here.
What course are you studying?
Meet Phil, one of our talented apprentices currently undertaking a Level 3 Installation and Maintenance Electrician Apprenticeship at Nottinghamshire Healthcare. Phil's four-year programme is now in its second year, and his journey so far has been nothing short of inspiring.
What inspired you to take this course?
Becoming a qualified electrician has been a long-time ambition of mine, and the Trust gave me the opportunity to pursue this dream. I took it with both hands!
How did you discover this opportunity?
I found out about the course through the Trust's Learning and Development team, who pointed me in the right direction, says Phil.
What has your experience been like?
Phil has embraced every aspect of his apprenticeship, praising the support he has received along the way. The experience has been brilliant so far. I've always felt included in the wider apprenticeship community and have had access to workshops, learning events, and any new information to aid my learning. The support has been there whenever I've needed it.
What advice would you give to others considering an apprenticeship?
When asked what advice he would give to others considering an apprenticeship, Phil doesn't hesitate: Go for it. It's a great opportunity to improve yourself in so many ways and expand your skills. It's worth every second.
At Nottinghamshire Healthcare, we're proud to support staff like Phil as they develop their skills and pursue their passions through apprenticeships. If you're considering a career with us, know that once your part of our team, a world of development opportunities awaits.
Emily Wheelhouse, BSc (Hons) Speech and Language Therapy Apprenticeship
What course are you studying?
Emily Wheelhouse, part of the Community Health Care Group at Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, is currently undertaking the BSc (Hons) Speech and Language Therapy Apprenticeship at Birmingham City University.
What inspired you to take this course?
Having worked as an Assistant Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) for over two years, Emily was eager to progress in her career.
How did you discover this opportunity?
When her team recognised her passion for development, they encouraged her to apply for the apprenticeship-an opportunity she saw as a perfect step forward in both her professional and personal growth.
What has your experience been like?
Now one month into the programme, Emily is finding the experience both exciting and challenging. She is particularly enjoying learning about Anatomy and Physiology and is eager to apply her knowledge in real-world settings. With placements approaching in the coming months, she is looking forward to exploring different services, gaining new experiences, and expanding her skill set.
What advice would you give to others considering an apprenticeship?
For those considering an apprenticeship with Nottinghamshire Healthcare, Emily has one piece of advice:
"Everything happens for a reason-if an opportunity arises to further your career, take it!"
Claire Flint, Level 7 leadership and management apprenticeship
What course are you studying?
Claire Flint's journey into Nutrition and Dietetics has been shaped by a deep passion for the field and a commitment to professional growth. Having originally studied Food, Nutrition, and Health at undergraduate level, she spent many years working in the nutrition sector. However, after facing redundancy, she had to rebuild her confidence before returning to the career she loved.
What inspired you to take this course?
Determined to share her passion with patients, Claire joined Nottinghamshire Healthcare as a Dietetic Assistant Practitioner. This role reignited her enthusiasm for the field and encouraged her to pursue further study.
How did you discover this opportunity?
Through discussions with her line manager, she explored progression opportunities and took an alternative route into Dietetics-a postgraduate apprenticeship. This innovative approach allowed her to study for an MSc in Dietetics while earning a Level 7 Leadership and Management qualification, all while continuing to work and support her family.
What has your experience been like?
Claire has thoroughly enjoyed expanding her knowledge and skills, as well as the opportunities to explore specialist areas of Dietetics beyond her current team. However, balancing work, study, and family life has been a challenge-one that has required careful time management and perseverance.
What advice would you give to others considering an apprenticeship?
Her advice to others considering an apprenticeship with Nottinghamshire Healthcare is to go for it but to also carefully consider how much time you can commit outside of work hours. The Trust is incredibly supportive of apprentices and offers great opportunities for career development and progression. Claire's story highlights how dedication and determination can lead to both personal and professional success in the NHS.
Nicola Threlkeld, Level 5 Operational / Departmental Manager apprenticeship
What course are you studying?
Nicola Threlkeld, Ward Co-ordinator, recently completed the Level 5 Operational/Departmental Manager apprenticeship.
What inspired you to take this course?
I wanted to enhance my leadership skills and knowledge to better support my current role and prepare for future career progression.
How did you discover this opportunity?
I attended an information session and after completing my Level 4 Business Administration apprenticeship, I was advised that the Level 5 programme would be the ideal next step for me.
What has your experience been like?
The course was an incredible learning journey. I attended sessions covering different elements of leadership and management, and I applied what I learned in a project to improve the medical stock process in our office. Using lean methodology, I was able to reduce waste, cut costs, and improve efficiency, which allowed clinical staff to spend more time caring for patients.
One of the most rewarding aspects was connecting with other apprentices during the sessions. Sharing ideas and receiving support and encouragement from peers was invaluable. My learning coach from ProStart Training also provided excellent 1:1 support, ensuring I had dedicated time to focus on my portfolio and progress.
What advice would you give to others considering an apprenticeship?
If you're thinking about an apprenticeship, go for it! The knowledge and development opportunities are excellent. With the support of the Trust and the training providers, I've gained the confidence to achieve my goals. I've now applied to undertake the Level 6 Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship-a step I never imagined I'd take, but one I'm excited to pursue.
Esmae Gaunt, BSc (Hons) Speech and Language Therapy apprenticeship
What course are you studying?
Esmae Gaunt, part of the Mental Health Care Group at Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, recently began the Speech and Language Therapy Degree Apprenticeship at Birmingham City University.
What inspired you to take this course?
Esmae is particularly driven to support individuals who may have struggled with communication difficulties throughout their lives but have 'fallen through the cracks' in receiving appropriate SLT support. Through this apprenticeship, she aims to develop her knowledge and skills to become a fully qualified SLT and make a real difference in patient care.
How did you discover this opportunity?
Having worked for several years as an Assistant Speech and Language Therapist in Adult Mental Health Inpatient Services, Esmae saw firsthand the critical need for speech and language therapy support. When the opportunity arose to apply for the apprenticeship, her experience and passion for helping individuals with communication, eating, drinking, and swallowing needs made it a natural next step.
What has your experience been like?
Now in the early stages of her course, Esmae is finding the learning experience both challenging and rewarding. Studying anatomy and physiology has been particularly fascinating, as it provides a deeper understanding of the science behind speech and language therapy. She is also engaging with evidence-based professional practice, which has broadened her perspective on research in the field. While balancing full-time work and study is a new challenge, the strong support from both the Trust and university is making all the difference.
What advice would you give to others considering an apprenticeship?
For those considering an apprenticeship, Esmae's advice is clear:
"Be confident in your own skills and knowledge from your day-to-day role. The course will build on what you already know-you're not expected to have all the answers from the start!"
Johnna Donovan, Psychology apprenticeship
What course are you studying?
Johnna Donovan, a Clinical Associate Psychologist (CAP) at Nottinghamshire Healthcare, shared her inspiring career journey in a recent interview with The BMJ.
What inspired you to take this course?
Passionate about psychology from a young age, Johnna has carved a unique path in the field, emphasising the benefits of combining work and study through apprenticeships.
How did you discover this opportunity?
Reflecting on her journey, Johnna highlighted the advantages of her CAP apprenticeship, an innovative program delivered by Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and Nottingham Trent University. The apprenticeship not only allowed her to gain a Level 7 master's degree while earning an NHS salary but also provided invaluable hands-on experience.
What has your experience been like?
"Studying while working means you can directly apply knowledge and quickly develop skills," says Johnna. Through her CAP role, she supports people with complex psychological needs, applying evidence-based interventions and collaborating within a multidisciplinary team.
What advice would you give to others considering an apprenticeship?
Johnna's story showcases the growing range of clinical psychology roles available, offering greater flexibility and opportunities for career progression. For aspiring psychologists, her journey highlights how apprenticeships can provide a fulfilling and accessible pathway into this rewarding field.