Nursing associate apprentice wins Apprentice of the Year

We’re delighted to announce that Rachel Macleod, Nursing Associate apprentice, has won the award for ‘Apprentice of the year – Health, social care & science’ at the East Kent Apprenticeship Awards.

Rachel, who works for the Demelza Hospice Care For Children, was nominated by her colleague for all her hard work and dedication during her apprenticeship. We’re sure you’ll join us in congratulating Rachel, on a very deserved award.

Here’s what Rachel had to say about the win and her experiences doing an apprenticeship:

What does it mean to you to win an East Kent Apprenticeship Award (EKAA)?

“I am very grateful to receive this award, as I know there would be many deserving candidates in this category, although my main joy is that winning this award raises awareness for the nursing associate apprenticeship, as there are many other health care assistants who I think could do this course to further their career.”

What have you enjoyed most about your apprenticeship?

“Gaining a much broader knowledge of nursing and learning new skills has given me confidence in the abilities I am developing. I have also greatly enjoyed working alongside registered nurses which have given me an insight into their roles and responsibilities. The support they have given me has helped make this course so enjoyable and kept me driven and focused to succeed.”

What has your apprenticeship taught you/allowed you to do?

“Having worked in hospice care for children in their homes for a number of years, this course has enabled me to go on placements which I have really enjoyed, I have had the opportunity to work on children’s wards and also as part of the district nursing team, both of which have shown me other areas of nursing and carry out practical skills I have been taught. I have also enjoyed the academic side and being able to work alongside other students who all come from different fields of nursing who have been able to share their experience and knowledge, helping me to develop in my role.

To find out more about this apprenticeship please visit our Nursing Associate Higher Apprenticeship page.