Proudly supporting Apprenticeships at BWC
For more than a decade our Trust has been supporting apprenticeships and we’re as passionate, which is why between 8 and 14 February we’ll be joining others to promote their many benefits during National Apprenticeships Week.
An apprenticeship is a real job with a real salary – meaning people can train while still earning a wage; working towards a recognised qualification as they go. More than 90 per cent of our apprentices have gone on to secure jobs within the NHS at the end of their apprenticeship.
There are many different levels offered in both clinical and non-clinical settings at our Trust - with opportunities starting from an entry level apprenticeship, such as Clinical Healthcare and then progressing to a higher level qualifications like Operating Department Practitioner, making them a viable alternative to university for many.
Oliver Arnold is one of our current more-than 220-strong group of apprentices. The 25-year-old is now doing Business Admin Level 3 apprenticeship after joining the Trust around 12 months ago following a suggestion from his family as he looked to find a job with more career options.
After taking the plunge and applying online Oliver, who is from Solihull, was successful at interview and accepted for his Level 2 Business Admin Apprenticeship. During 2020 he completed his assignments, as well as working 200 hours as a Clinical Education Apprentice based in the Resus Team. He completed just a few weeks ago and has since jumped straight into a Level 3 course, which he’s set to complete in January 2022.
After proving to be a valued member of the team during his first year at BWC, Oliver applied and was successful in getting a two-year full-time contract as a Clinical Education Administrative again based within the Resus Team. He will work full time alongside completing all his assessments for his Level 3 qualification.
When asked for his advice to anyone considering an apprenticeship Oliver said: “Definitely do it. I was stuck thinking I would be in my job forever but if you get an apprenticeship and put the work in, it really does pay off.
“If you would have told me three years ago how much I’ve learnt, I never would have believed it.
“I’ve worked with such a supportive team who have helped me develop and grow and my assessor has helped me get where I am today. I can’t thank them all enough.”
The Trust currently as a huge variety of staff in a number of roles using the apprenticeships levy for Social Work, Nursing Associates, Midwifery Support Workers, Healthcare Science, Chartered Managers and Senior Leadership.
Apprenticeships at Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Foundation Trust are advertised on the NHS Jobs website when they become available.
You need to be 18 to apply for Clinical Apprenticeships with Intakes usually happen every January, May and September. For more information visit our apprenticeships page: https://bwc.nhs.uk/apprenticeships